Doing two research projects as an undergrad - crazy?

In summary, a person is considering taking on two undergraduate research projects at the same time. They have received offers from two professors in different fields and are interested in trying both theoretical and experimental work. However, they are also considering the time commitment and whether the professors would appreciate their divided interests. They plan to discuss this with the professors and are seeking advice from others who have experience with multiple research projects. The conversation concludes with the suggestion to choose only one project and potentially consider the other in the future. The person is leaning towards not taking on both projects at once.
  • #1
DieCommie
157
0
Hello all,

I have been trying to get an undergrad research position for some time, and have now got two offers at once! They are disparate fields and I want to do them both!

Reasons I want to do them both are - One is theoretical and one is experimental and I want to try both of those. Each professor is one whom I will ask for a letter in the coming months. Plus I like both professors personally. And more experience is better, right?

Reasons I may not do both - Time of course. Certainly I need to find the specifics of time requirements, but I think neither will be more than 10 hours a week. I also wonder if either of the professors wouldn't appreciate me dividing my interests...

Of course I will discuss all this with them tomorrow and figure out what I am going to do. I wonder what you guys think. Have any of you done, or know anybody who has done two undergrad research projects at once?
 
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  • #2
Doing two research projects at once sounds like a terrible idea. Choose only one, and if you find you have extra time, then simply spend more time working on that project, which should help you get a nice letter of recommendation. It's nonsense to think neither will be more than 10 hours a week; research projects take as much time as you're willing to put into them (unless you'd be a lab drone, in which case the projects shouldn't sound quite that interesting). If the project is indeed short, then you'll finish it early and could consider working for the other prof once that's done.

If you're not a senior, simply consider doing the other one in another semester / year / this summer.
 
  • #3
Very true. I am leaning against doing this now. I don't know if the second offer I got is lab drone stuff or not, I will find out tomorrow.
 

FAQ: Doing two research projects as an undergrad - crazy?

Is it possible to balance working on two research projects as an undergrad?

Yes, it is possible to balance working on two research projects as an undergrad. It may require good time management skills and dedication, but it can be done.

Will working on two research projects affect my grades?

It depends on how well you manage your time and prioritize your tasks. If you are able to balance your workload and maintain good time management, it should not significantly affect your grades.

How will working on two research projects benefit me as an undergrad?

Working on two research projects can provide you with a variety of experiences and skills. It can help you develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills. It can also enhance your resume and make you a more competitive candidate for graduate programs or jobs.

Will I have enough support and guidance while working on two research projects?

It is important to communicate with your mentors and advisors to ensure that you have enough support and guidance while working on two research projects. They can help you manage your workload and provide you with the necessary resources and support.

Are there any potential challenges or drawbacks to working on two research projects as an undergrad?

One potential challenge is balancing your time and workload effectively. It may also be difficult to juggle between the two projects and maintain progress on both. Additionally, it may be more demanding and require more commitment, which can be overwhelming for some students. However, with proper time management and support, these challenges can be overcome.

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