Which would you choose?

[seorah]

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As an undergrad trying to get more research experience, what would look better on an application: Directed study or a paid RA gig?

I've been looking forward to my directed study... I get to run my own mini project and strengthen my relationship with a professor (I'm already volunteering at his lab this summer)

But also would be nice to get paid doing similar research... 😀

Which would you choose?

 

[roubs]

As an undergrad trying to get more research experience, what would look better on an application: Directed study or a paid RA gig?

I've been looking forward to my directed study... I get to run my own mini project and strengthen my relationship with a professor (I'm already volunteering at his lab this summer)

But also would be nice to get paid doing similar research... 😀

Which would you choose?

What will you be doing in the paid gig? Can you get a comparable letter from a psychologist there? Chances of publications/presentations from each?

 

[Doctor Eliza]

Are you sure you have to choose? Is there any way to give up other obligations so that you can do both?

Dr. E

 

[roubs]

Are you sure you have to choose? Is there any way to give up other obligations so that you can do both?

Dr. E

Haha, only w/psych folks would someone looking for an answer get 5 questions instead. And I think it's totally fine btw :/

 

[seorah]

What will you be doing in the paid gig? Can you get a comparable letter from a psychologist there? Chances of publications/presentations from each?

I would be gathering data and running subjects, pretty much the same thing I'm doing now while volunteering. I'm not sure about getting a letter from the paid job, but I would be able to get one from the professor I'm working with now regardless. Low probability of squeezing myself into a publication for both cases.

 

[seorah]

Are you sure you have to choose? Is there any way to give up other obligations so that you can do both?

Dr. E

I'd love to, but I'm going to be taking a full course load and there's only so many hours in a day.

 

[Pragma]

I would be gathering data and running subjects, pretty much the same thing I'm doing now while volunteering. I'm not sure about getting a letter from the paid job, but I would be able to get one from the professor I'm working with now regardless. Low probability of squeezing myself into a publication for both cases.

Why? I think professors should support student/RA co-authorship (without being too liberal, of course).

 

[perhaps11]

I think the questions being posed here regarding your possible responsibilities and opportunities at the RA gig (e.g. getting a letter of rec) are valid questions for which you should ask the employer. This may help you make the right decision for your situation.

 

[deleted462159]

Do you have concrete plans for your study? Have you discussed your project with your professor? And especially will s/he be committed to mentoring you in the process? If not, I would take the paid RA position. But do what fits your goals, time, etc.