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January 23, 2006
What's Your SOURCE of Inspiration
There's a lot that goes on around campus, which means that everybody who works in undergraduate admissions--from the counselors on down to every student tour guide, ambassador, and greeter--constantly has to be learning about Case's programs. So once a month, we all get together to hear someone from one of these programs speak.
Last Friday, it was Sheila Pedigo from SOURCE, Support of Undergraduate Research & Creative Endeavors. SOURCE helps students find experiential learning opportunities like research and creative projects.
As a staff member, it was really cool for me to hear from some of our student workers who are into research. Nicole, one of our tour guides, is a sophomore biomed engineering major who's already doing paid research work for her advisor.
Actually, a lot of the students who work in our office have done research work. Campuswide, about 75% of students do research or independent study.
Sheila from SOURCE had some good tips for prospective students.
Don't get into research in your first semester--give yourself some time to settle in. College is a big adjustment for most students. No matter how many AP classes you had senior year, it will seem like more work. Plus, you'll probably be living away from home for the first time and learning a new level of time management, etc.
There's another advantage to waiting--it gives you a chance to think about what kind of research you'd like to do and figure out which projects going on around campus fit best with your plans.
Cast a wide net at first. If there are no paid positions on the project that's perfect for you, consider volunteering until something opens up. If something is available in chemistry and you were hoping for something biochemistry, go for it. It will be great experience.
Sheila also encourages students to be willing to travel. SOURCE helps students apply for summer research positions at other universities and research institutes. One of our students at the meeting had done summer research at the National Institutes of Health.
You also need to be willing to put yourself out there. Most students find research positions on campus by asking around. Professors, advisors, and friends are great people to start with. And don't forget to consult the folks in the SOURCE office.
Posted by pls9 at January 23, 2006 09:13 PM
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