This URSI position allowed me to see the process of scientific research first-hand.
What I wish was different
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we had to operate remotely for the whole summer. Under normal circumstances we would have been on campus, which would have been ideal.
Advice
If you think you want a career in research, I would recommend URSI as a way to see what research is like.
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Undergraduate Research Assistant
May - July 2020 • Poughkeepsie, NY
What I liked
I was able to learn new technologies in order to develop something new.
What I wish was different
I wish I had been able to do the research in person, but it was remote due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Advice
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Economic Research Assistant
June - August 2020 • Poughkeepsie, NY
What I liked
I loved working closely with my professor and seeing behind the scenes of a research paper.
What I wish was different
I wish my experience hadn’t been remote due to COVID-19.
Advice
It’s very important to make connections with your professors, as most do truly want to help you!
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Fellow
May - July 2020 • Poughkeepsie, NY
What I liked
The professors are very helpful
What I wish was different
Advice
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URSI Student
May - August 2020 • Poughkeepsie, NY
What I liked
I loved learning about new concepts that I would not get to learn in my current classes or on my own. It was interesting being able to apply theoretical knowledge I knew and learned about in a practical way that allowed me to understand what I actually knew.
What I wish was different
Advice
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Research Assistant
June 2017 • Poughkeepsie, NY
What I liked
The ability to develop ideas and work alongside a faculty member to conduct independent research.
What I wish was different
More collaboration with other students.
Advice
Take advantage of faculty mentorship and ask questions. Be curious!
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Vice-President of Activities
August 2015 - January 2016 • Poughkeepsie, NY
What I liked
Representing student concerns.
What I wish was different
Very time intensive
Advice
Be sure you can complete your academic obligations before signing up.
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URSI Research Fellow
June - August 2017 • Poughkeepsie, NY
What I liked
It was half advanced education, half self-designed research for my project. Perfect balance of structure and creativity to build my skill set in mathematical modeling.
What I wish was different
Wish it had been longer!
Advice
Take the time to set expectations with your faculty mentor at the very beginning, make a projected schedule together, and continuous communication and accountability during the project is key!
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Student Researcher
June - August 2017 • Poughkeepsie, NY
What I liked
The opportunity to develop a close mentoring relationship with a professor.
What I wish was different
I wish I would have taken more classes that would have helped in understanding the research I was doing.
