research in MD1,2?

[docahk]

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Hi all,
Is it possible to do research during MD year 1 and 2 of an MSTP program? I wanna crank that PhD out in no time! docahk

 

[leverp2000]

I think it is possible in some programs, but it may be harder to accomodate in others. It would depend on several factors: whether you take grad courses in first two years (and how demanding they are), the demand of the med school curriculum, and, most importantly, how much you are willing to work. There are some people that choose to do this, and it's feasible, but it may be a little more difficult at some programs than others. Personally, I think med school, grad classes, and slacking will occupy most of my time 😀.

 

[Rupert Pumpkin]

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[abeanatrice]

I actually asked this question previously and AndyMilonakis responded that he was able to manage 40-60 hours of labwork per week during MS1&2 at U of Michigan. I know I will be doing at least 20 hours a week, perhaps more depending on how efficiently I can study between experiments.

You really crack me up. You act like you're going to be starting next year. Drink a beer. Or 10.

 

[b&ierstiefel]

I actually asked this question previously and AndyMilonakis responded that he was able to manage 40-60 hours of labwork per week during MS1&2 at U of Michigan. I know I will be doing at least 20 hours a week, perhaps more depending on how efficiently I can study between experiments.

Actually, I worked in the lab only during M2 year because I had decided upon where I would do my thesis research the summer prior. During M1 year, I was a lazy sack of crap...I just skipped class and jammed on my electric guitar all day while my housemates were out of the house.

But anyways to the OP...my motive to do research during M2 year was similar to your motives. I used that year to work on 3 different projects to really get ahead of the game. Unfortunately, none of the projects worked. However, the effort was still worth it because I learned all the techniques and experimental protocols used in the lab during this year. Hence, when I started the grad school phase of the education, I was able to start a new project with relative ease. This time, serendipity was on my side, and things worked out well.

 

[BandGeek]

Unless you know exactly who you are going to work for, use MS1 & MS2 lab time to find who you want to work for. I have averaged 15-20 hours a week during parts of the school year this year (I am a MS1) doing lab rotations for several mentors. I get nothing in terms of research data done, but I am mining tons in connections and know-how. Also, enjoy being a medical student, as it is more laid back than graduate school (it takes everyone four years, so no one is rushing to be done!)

 

[Rupert Pumpkin]

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