Your Trail Guide to Landing the Perfect Research Opportunity
Follow this map to land the perfect research opportunity and use it to apply to medical school.
Dealing with the Challenges that Come with Research
In this lesson, Shivani Mehta discusses the challenges that often accompany research endeavors. She acknowledges that, like any other role, being a member of a research team can sometimes be frustrating. Shivani highlights that there might be moments in the lab experience that may not feel as fulfilling as one would hope. The key is to discern whether the challenges faced will improve over time or if it’s an indication to seek new opportunities. This session is particularly insightful as it addresses common feelings and offers guidance on navigating them, emphasizing that students are not alone in their experiences.Overcoming Research-Related Challenges
Shivani provides strategies to help students navigate the common challenges they may face in research. Key points include:- Acknowledging Challenges: Every research role, like other jobs or internships, comes with challenges. Recognizing them is the first step to addressing them effectively.
- Perspective on Mundane Tasks: While some tasks like genotyping or cleaning datasets might seem tedious, it’s essential to understand their significance in the broader research context. These tasks can play a crucial role in the research process.
- Open Communication with the PI: If you consistently find yourself engaged in tasks that don’t align with your interests, it’s beneficial to communicate this with your Principal Investigator (PI). Discussing your goals and aspirations can increase the likelihood of being assigned to projects that resonate more with your interests.
- Regular Check-ins: Shivani emphasizes the importance of regular check-ins with the PI. These sessions can provide clarity on one’s role and progress, and ensure that the research experience is enriching and aligned with one’s aspirations.