Undergraduate Research Concern

[Sun Lips]

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Hi all! I Just stumbled upon this community and am very happy to have discovered this resource.

My question in a nutshell is this: Does working on a research project in psychology that isn't directly related to one's prospective graduate program in psychology a significant issue?

I'm currently working on a basic research project in cognitive psychology that has no clinical implications. This is my first research experience and I enjoy the work and am highly involved. The professor is a wonderful mentor to me and I am learning many invaluable things about psychological research.

Yet, I am still somewhat concerned that a basic research study exploring perception in visual artists will not impress a clinical or counselling admissions board as much as a more directly related study. I do plan to pursue a more related project after we publish.

Thanks for your thoughts.

 

[KayJay85]

I think graduate programs are most interested in seeing that you have some concept and understanding of what research is like. While it is ideal to have experience in a related area, I doubt it is a deal breaker. Esp. those applying straight from undergrad.

 

[vivaloca]

I think that any research experience is good experience. I worked in two psych labs during college that had nothing to do with my topics of interest for graduate school, and found them both to be really good experiences.

That being said, my general feeling is that most PhD programs/professors would like to see some sort of exposure to whatever you indicate as your topic of interest. Showing that you took time to explore that area and understand the complexities will go a long way to helping you be a perfect match for a POI.

So sounds like this lab will be a great research start for you!

 

[Sun Lips]

Appreciate the feedback!

 

[paramour]

I think this depends upon who you speak with during the application process, as many professors will be happy that you sought the initiative to obtain any research experience at all, whereas others will ask you how you know that you are truly interested in working with x, y, or z when your experience is with a, b, and c. Be prepared to answer.

As with this entire process, it depends. G'luck!