research experience question

[PsychEagle]

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I'm a first year student dual majoring in Spanish and Psychology in university. I've just transferred from a community college to a research university in my state and will be beginning my sophomore year there in August. I'd eventually like to do a Ph.D/Psy.D in Clinical psych and failing that I'd like to pursue something in the realm of doctoral studies in neuropsychology/neuroscience.

Now that I'm transferring to a proper university, there will be opportunities for undergraduate research experience and I'd like to start thinking about getting involved in research, but I did have some questions I'd like to pose.

- With competition for RA positions pretty high and competition for grad school entry even more competitive, can a prospective student be picky about RA assignments? Should I look for certain key elements when searching for a position or is the advice pretty much 'take what you can get because the pickings are slim.'

- How harmful would it be if the RAship isn't in one of the areas I mentioned above? Would it be best to concentrate on one of them and shoot for relevant experience or is it yet again one of those 'take the best you can get' scenarios?

- What else should I be doing to make myself more marketable for graduate school admissions?

Thanks in advance for the advice.

 

[snowwoman]

Undergrad research is VERY important if you want to get into grad school. Another thing is, if available, do an undergraduate honours thesis. You probably want to start 'courting' the professor you want now. I also transfered after a year from college to university, and from my first year in university (so second year of studies), I courted the prof I wanted to work with. I did one term volunteering with her, then two terms as her RA for credit. And then this year, I did my undergrad thesis with her.

Sometimes what you need to do is be bold. No one is going to hear the mouse squeaking in the corner. Know what you want, and tell them what you want. Be confident, but don't be arrogant. You have to be willing to make a LOT of mistakes along the way. It's worth it!

Re. being picky. Do your research first before you walk in to see the prof. If they see you have a real interest in it, they will be more likely to take you seriously. Read their work before you talk to them. And it doesn't hurt for your grades to be good.
I don't think it matters that much if your research experience is not in the field you want to major in, although it would help. I also am RA for two other labs, and my prof said it's good as it shows versatility. Again, I courted one of them from second year.

Another thing grad schools love to see is publications and presentations. Tell your prof upfront you're interested in being part of manuscripts and such. I tried my luck, and one of them put has taken me on to publish. I'm presenting at a conference with another.

Your letter of recommendations are also very important. Build up enough profs who would be willing to write you one. Two is a must. Three or four will really help...in case you end up fighting with one 😉 Also, try taking classes with the prof you're interested in working with. It will help if they can talk about you as a student in class as well as an RA and a person.

p.s., Summer might be a good time to be an RA...many people go away...*hint hint*