What do I do if my school doesn't provide research opportunities?

[Spitphire]

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I really want to begin research. I've always found research to be interesting and incredibly fun. My problem is that I go to a very small school and none of my professors actively do research. The only way they do research is if the student comes up with the idea. I'm currently a freshman so it's a little difficult to find a research project.

What can I do to get some exposure? I'm applying to a few summer research programs, but most only accepted sophomore+. I feel like my only hope is to think of a research project on my own. Any suggestions?

 

[Cmdr_Shepard]

Maybe just focus on volunteering within the community in a clinical or non-clinical setting. You can probably add research later (junior+).

 

[Spitphire]

Maybe just focus on volunteering within the community in a clinical or non-clinical setting. You can probably add research later (junior+).

Definitely not a bad suggestion. I plan to begin volunteer this summer if im not accepted to a research program. I do have limited options, so I guess my choices are either not worry about it, get into a program, or find my own research project.

 

[Spitphire]

This sometimes works: Find researchers whose work you are interested in and ask if you can work there over a summer. If you can provide your own funding, i.e., feed and shelter yourself, they may have a project you can help on. This will take a lot of emailing and patience. However, it does happen and I did that for a student when I was a graduate.

I like this idea. Thanks for that! Also, good for you to bring in students! That's awesome 🙂