I gently want to repeat what RP said. Although I respect SMW's opinion a lot, I do think that it is important to get a variety of experience. It can't hurt you to do that. Take me for example:
I worked with a children's organisation for 4 years. I loved working with the children and for a while even thought about Pediatrics. By the end of the fourth year, I felt a bit burned out and lacking of inspiration. Perhaps it got too old and repetitive after a while. Not knowing what i wanted to do next, I looked for things that sparked my interest. And next thing i know, I am working with physicians in an OB/Gyn clinic. I absolutely fell in LOVE with OB/Gyn....and this is perhaps what I'll do later in life.
BUT.... (hehehe..there's always a BUTT)
Since the last year, I've been working in Geriatrics with terminally ill people. And that is a whole different field, something ELSE I have fallen in love with. My point is--do what sparks your interest. Not what "fits" your profile. Do something absolutely new and different, but also somethign that will keep you interested for a year. I did bench work for a summer and it was a 10 week program. By the 9th week, I was about to call it quits because I absolutely abhorred coming to work everyday and washing stuff and weighing stuff and doing RIAs. One year of that would surely kill me.
So, now if I go to an interview, I will be able to say that although I have done research for 5 years, I don't think I could step into a lab. However, I do love clinical research and find myself at home doing research on human subjects. Not only does it get me close to the "intellectual and detective" side of medicine, but I have been able to have clinical experiences that have taught me many, many lessons.
Now, do you think that at the end of one year, you will be able to say something similar about your "new" position?
Does it make you smile when you talk about the kind of research you are doing? Does it excite you to know that even IF you don't get paid.....or don't get a publication...hell, even if you have to work on weekends, do you will still think it's a worthwhile experience? If you can seriously say YES to all these questions, then that is the right choice for you.
So think hard about what you want to do, and don't hurry into any decisions. You have one year (and i know its' hard but think of it as time granted to you for more personal growth) to make something ELSE out of your application, and yourself. Don't forget that this is one year out of yourself. take the time and learn something new that not only adds to your application, but adds a new .....meaning to "YOU." Something that gives you personal growth, somethign that you are going to carry in your heart and mind even after you finish that one year and moved onto something else. Love what you do.
If I were you, I would try a whole different option. Perhaps do a few months in a different country ((if you are out of school)) because I've always wanted to travel. Anyway, your opportunities are limitless. Make the most of your time. My best wishes to you, and keep us updated!!
