What type of Research experience is good for applications?

[willole]

I've read on here and other pre-vet forums that having research experience is great for vet school applications, but I was wondering if my experience matches what schools like to see. I have about a year (250 hours) working as a research assistant in a Psychology/Social Sciences lab (before I wanted to do VetMed). There I learned a ton about the research process (i.e. conducting sound studies, interpreting statistical findings, data-entry and manipulation, publishing papers and posters). Should I try to get more 'hard-science' or animal-related experience, or do you think what I have is fine if I can market it well on an application. It definitely taught me a lot about how people work, if that makes sense... And I am very passionate about the type of research I got to do. Im just curious because at this point in my pre-vet career, I don't really want to dedicate so much time towards being an unpaid research assistant, especially since I've already spent a year doing so and need to prioritize animal experience.

Thanks!!

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[willole]

Ok, so I found these previously posted here...

Research

I know that research is a valued component of an application (although not necessary), I was just wondering what kind of research would be considered valuable? I have experience as a research assistant in a psychology lab, so not really animal related at all.

forums.studentdoctor.net

Undergrad Research Question!

Hey everyone! I am currently a sophomore in undergrad and I plan to apply to vet school in the fall of 2021. I’ve been looking to do some research next year and haven’t had much luck finding anything through my university. Many of the research projects do not interest me or they are already...

forums.studentdoctor.net

and it looks like they're stressing that research is research xD... looks like I'm good then, but any other input is very helpful, thanks!

 

[EB73674]

I think if you CAN get some more practical non-social-science research without any ill effects on your grades or other experiences, then go for it, but don't stress too hard about it. Plenty of folks also get in with virtually no research experience, too, so it's definitely not a requirement.

 

[battie]

Research is research. The vast majority of applicants dont have any research at all, so whatever you have will only help.

 

[sheltermed]

I think what you have now is great. It sounds like you have a solid understanding of the scientific method regardless of whether it was "hard science." Anything can be marketed well as long as you put in that effort.

I would not seek out opportunities just because you think it will look good. I think you should pursue what interests you.