So my mentors, on my behalf, spoke with the research faculty at my top choice dental school. Two unpaid research associate positions were offered to me. This same week, I was offered a paid dental assisting job closer to home. I have an arguably competitive application already with great recommendation letters and all the requirements. I do want to pursue research in the future in whatever form it may take later in life. However, I don't know if it is worth it to move to my dental school a year earlier to pursue unpaid positions. It will undoubtedly be an insightful experience but I am getting cold feet because moving is a big deal. My parents will cover my rent. They also agree that it's a great educational experience. I was also thinking about doing dental assisting part-time (commuting from the apartment at the dental school) and doing both research positions. (dental school is around 2 hours from home and 1 hour from dental assisting). Some friends argue that I should just relax and take things easy during my gap year. But I did a lot of traveling throughout undergrad and I want my gap year to be a meaningful experience. Any thoughts?
