Summer class or Summer Research?

[rpames]

I would like you opinions on this. This summer I was going to take a summer course (statistics) and get it out of the way but a undergraduate reaserch oppertunity has just presented it self and the class and the research overlap. The research is at the University of Toledo studing the waters that flow into Lake Erie. It is 9 weeks, pays $2500, give transportation to and from Toledo, and provides lodging. This could lead to a publictation, and if not it sounds like a good oppertunity anyway. What do you think, class or research? Thanks

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[Hallie]

I vote research. Sounds more fun and interesting than Stats.

 

[TheAce]

Do the research. It will most likely help you more than taking a single stats class. If you really want to take a stats class, see if you can fit it into your schedule during the year.

 

[Medigirl]

I vote research as well. I was asked about my research project in every med school interview I had. At the very least, research will provide you with something science-related to talk about during interviews. Besides, you can probably fit stats in during the school year.

 

[rpames]

My main concern with doing the research, is that it is not related to medicine at all. Should I look for something else with better ties to medicine or will this project make me look more well rounded?

 

[Hallie]

It's not specifically medicine, but it IS science and it IS research. You can make a strong argument as to why this experience will help you become a better scientist, and thus a better doctor. Plus, you'll probably get to do more than you might do working in a lab.

P.S. It also has as much to do with medicine as the stats course does.

 

[rpames]

The reason I was going to take the Stat course is because I need it to get my BS in bio. That is the only reason.

 

[oscar505]

Hey go for the research. I went to a summer research program at Baylor in Houston and it was awesome. The research stuff always helps in your med school app.

 

[rpames]

Thanks to everyone for your thoughts. I have decide to do reseach but not this one in Toledo. I sounds interesting but it is 9 weeks and in Ohio. I'm going to look for one closer to home (Wisconsin). If any one knows of any, your welcome to post it, or tell me where I can find one.
Thanks again.

 

[TheAce]

I have no idea where Oshkosh is, but check the nearest med school for research positions in their basic science departments (Physiology, Microbiology, ...) It's harder to get a position in a clinical department (Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, ...) because they are looking for people more clinically oriented. The other choice is a large research university (U of Wisconisin, who knows where else) in their department of biology or chemistry. Profs are always looking for some slave labor.

 

[twister]

For research opportunities in Central/Northern Wisconsin, check at Marshfield. They do have a paying research program, though I am not sure if the deadline is past. You might want to check at Medical College of Wisconsin as well. I think Wausau Hospital also has some summer programs, but seem to be more clinically aimed.

 

[rpames]

Thanks, I would prefer a clinical oppertunity but one that involves a little research too. I want to go into some form of surgery. Thanks everyone.