Being able to work with the different tribes of Virginia was a really exciting and challenging experience. I loved being able to work on my leadership skills as well. It was my first time doing environmental fieldwork, so I truly enjoyed that experience as well.
What I wish was different
I wish we had more time to do fieldwork, as well as a stronger check-in system from our Professors. I felt there wasn't an equal division of work among the interns. A few were doing a lot of work while the rest did little.
Advice
Do not hesitate to take your concerns straight to your Principal Investigators (or boss) with your concerns and frustrations. Let them know what is going on - don't suffer in silence.
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Undergraduate Research Assistant
August 2019 • Fairfax, VA
What I liked
I appreciate the experience of interacting with participants and learning about the thorough logistics it takes to execute a long term study. It's all very cool to be a part of this man power and particular research.
What I wish was different
I wish the study pertained more to my area of study (psych), but definitely not complaining.
Advice
Build genuine connections with those you work with and try to learn as much as you can! Stay present and curious.
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Undergraduate Researcher
May - August 2019 • Fairfax, VA
What I liked
Allowed for valuable first-hand experience in working in a lab and fieldwork. Gave us insight to the scientific method and how to properly approach a question.
What I wish was different
More prior knowledge beforehand. The project seemed confusing at first and I often found myself grasping at straws in order to figure out problems. However, my mentor was very patient and answered all of my questions in a respectable manner.
Advice
Be ready for anything. Research is much more complex than one would believe. It is often not as simple to solve problems. So be ready for anything in the process to go wrong and prepare solutions in order to fix those problems.
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Undergraduate Researcher
June 2019 • Fairfax, VA
What I liked
Great opportunity to get valuable research experience and to get connected with fellow researchers and faculty mentors.
What I wish was different
It was great!
Advice
Try your best to do an intensive research summer semester through OSCAR.
