research or volunteer?

[Pebbs]

I'm gonna be applying for fall 2003 admission, and right now i'm volunteering at both a dental lab and at a clinic. But i don't have any research experience. Should I cut out some volunteering and get some research experience instead? I love volunteering, but I want to stay competitive too...what do you guys think? <img src="confused.gif" border="0">

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[reena]

pebbs,

research is not a requirement for dental school admissions, but it certainly can't hurt to have the experience. i found that most schools i've interviewed at were impressed with my research experience... and it also served as a conversation piece. i think what you are doing as a volunteer is great! having experience at a dental clinic seems to carry greater weight than research... either way should be fine.

you could always apply for a research associate position (there are plenty in southern california) and volunteer on the side, meanwhile. good luck. if you have additional questions, feel free to post!

reena

 

[ske5]

I don't think that I have been asked a single question about my research during any interview that I have been to. Of course, I did find ways to bring it up...

 

[Pebbs]

reena,

how do you go about getting a research associate position?

thanks so much!

 

[tinker bell]

How to get a research associate position? Look for job opportunity posted in the university web sites. Or do your own research and find a rich lab and call the professor up saying that you are interested in his research, e-mail him a resume.
That's how I got my job. Best of luck.
Make sure you bargain for your salary too. Because they tend to pay really cheap for lab rats like us. Make sure you mention the high living cost and blah blah blah....

 

[reena]

pebbs,

before you apply for a research associate position, you have to decide whether you want to work in academia, government or industry. i have held research positions in all three sectors, and i enjoyed working in industry the most. southern california have a wealth of pharmaceuticals/biotech companies; for jobs there, you can simply go to the company web-page and submit a resume on-line. as for positions in academia, i would suggest talking to a professor you know well, and share your research experiences. they may be able to offer you a few names, and you can write to them directly (and send them a complete package, including cover letter, resume, transcripts and references). it is a lot easier to get your foot in the door with a reference. otherwise, you can do what tinker bell did. good luck to you, and if you have any more concerns, post away!