Subcategories

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• Profile Building

  Explore different ways to build a unique, strong and well-balanced profile as you approach application deadlines.

  3 Topics

  14 Posts

  I

  That's a great question. While it is challenging to be precise about what constitutes good research but I can share my perspectives. In my view, good research work starts with attempting to solve an important problem—a problem that is relevant, that people care about, one that has the potential to advance knowledge, influence practice, or inform policy.

  Once the problem is defined, good research involves employing a sound methodology and evaluation framework to solve it effectively. This process includes thorough investigation of the solution space, analysis, and critical thinking.

  For undergraduates, the first research problem is often provided by their professors. The expectation is for the student to demonstrate their ability to solve the problem through various tasks. Excelling in this requires several key qualities:

  Taking ownership of the project: In other words, showing genuine engagement and responsibility for the project. Ability to learn new things: That is the ability to learn new concepts, tools, and techniques relevant to the research. Initiative: Proactively explore new ideas and approaches.

  Having a research publication is beneficial but it is not required for good admissions. If you excel in your research, strong letters of recommendation will reflect your efforts. Additionally, having at least a technical report is very useful.

  In my experience, over time, good undergraduates tend to take on more responsibility in research projects by suggesting new ideas, contributing to writing papers, presenting their work, and mentoring junior students.

  What should undergrads do to gain good research experience?
  To gain research experience as an undergraduate, start by seeking out opportunities within your department. This can involve joining a lab, assisting with faculty projects, or pursuing an independent study. It’s beneficial to get involved as early as possible to gain experience and develop your skills (e.g., summer before the Junior year is a good time to begin looking for projects). Finding a mentor is also crucial; a faculty advisor can provide guidance, support, and opportunities for deeper involvement in research. Be proactive in your research work by proposing ideas, volunteering for additional responsibilities, and seeking feedback to enhance your learning and contributions.

  Additionally, focus on developing relevant skills such as research methods, statistical analysis, and research writing. Networking is also important; attend talks/seminars, workshops, and conferences to stay informed about current research trends and connect with other researchers. Finally, keep detailed records of your research activities, methodologies, and findings. This documentation will be very valuable when writing your statement of purpose or research summaries for graduate school applications.

• Should I Apply for Grad School?

  7 Topics

  20 Posts

  U

  Thank you for your advice 🙂

• Master vs Ph.D.?

  1 Topics

  4 Posts

  A

  PhD is a huge decision, and you absolutely need a huge reason other than funding. It’s like being handed a fishing rod and being asked to get back with a fish nobody has ever seen before. Such is the uncertainty inherent in a PhD. The purpose of a PhD is to receive formal training in research, the goal of a PhD is to actually go through this process and produce a novel finding at the end. There is most definitely going to be a time when this need for novelty makes you desperate. It is then that you need a magical combination of passion and love for your field, and faith in the process to get you through. At times, even your advisor may not be able to get you through a specific research progress slump. This is where your grit and drive get tested to the best of your ability. A drive you’re likely to possess only if you are entering a PhD with a strong reason to begin with.

  I would encourage you to first assess what the final destination in your head is. Do you want to go into academia and pursue research full time? Do you want to go into an industry that demands a PhD and high technical acumen? Do you want to pursue research within industry in their research wings? Be sure that you only pursue a PhD if your desired goal absolutely necessitates it. If you have a specific profession or dream job in mind, go meet people who do that and engage with them about their experiences and learn if you can imagine yourself having the experiences they describe. Do you actually want what they get out of their experience or not? If you still want to be like them, then investigate if a PhD is absolutely necessary to get there.

• Where to apply?

  4 Topics

  10 Posts

  T

  Thank you, will have a look at these.