So I was planning on getting into research next year for my Undergrad

In summary: It is not good research to just have a student do a literature search a summarization.In summary, the speaker was planning on getting into research for their Undergrad in Physics and talked to their counselor about it. They reached out to professors for guidance and received mixed responses. Despite their efforts to understand a published paper given to them by one professor, they were written off as incompetent. Their quantum teacher also declined to advise or guide them for research, opting to work with other students. The speaker is feeling discouraged and seeks advice on how to get into research. The advice given includes being humble, focusing on good grades, and reaching out to professors for potential research projects. However, it is noted that research positions for undergraduate students can be competitive and
  • #1
sol66
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So I was planning on getting into research next year for my Undergrad in Physics and so I self studied, trying to get ahead in my classes. I talked to my counciler about it and she told me to just talk to one of the professors.

During Mid-Semester I talked to my quantum professor as well as my EM professor about either being advised or working for them. My quantum professor said he was glad that I was interested in his research and told me that he'd give me material over the summer to read over given that I went back to him towards the end of the semester. My EM professor on the other end gave me an article that he published and told me to understand it and talk to him a number of weeks later.

Needless to say, I did my research and understood the published paper my EM teacher gave me, but now he won't even let me talk to him about it. He automatically wrote me off as incompetent and won't believe that I understand it, which I really do.

My quantum teacher on the other hand wrote back to me declaring that doesn't even want to advise/ guide me for research; apparently he found 3 other students he'd rather employ/help next year.

So I emailed my adviser about finding other professors and now she won't even respond to me. Its not like I'm a bad student, I got A's on all the homework in EM turning out with a B+ in the class and I also received a B in Quantum.

How can I get into research? I keep asking around and it's like no one wants anything to do with me. I hate this so much, it's rather depressing; I would make a better researcher than student, that's just who I am.
 
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  • #2


Hard to say without being there... but I will repeat a bit of advice my physics professor gave me; "Be humble."

Actions do speak much louder than words. And to be a good researcher you have to be a good student, a researcher is just a student of nature after all.
 
  • #3


sol66 said:
Needless to say, I did my research and understood the published paper my EM teacher gave me, but now he won't even let me talk to him about it. He automatically wrote me off as incompetent and won't believe that I understand it, which I really do.

My quantum teacher on the other hand wrote back to me declaring that doesn't even want to advise/ guide me for research; apparently he found 3 other students he'd rather employ/help next year.

I wouldn't worry too much about these things, and don't take them personally. For now, keep your focus on getting good grades and don't panic about not being able to get some research done right away - persevere with what you've been doing, however. Try to become friendly with professors throughout the semester: if you're focussing on your classes you'll be able to show your inquisitive side during/after lectures by asking questions. In time you can talk to any new lecturers about starting some research projects - it might be an idea to simply mention that you're interested in looking for a research project and you're flexible about what you can do. You can then ask if this researcher is interested in taking on a student, but if not, you can also ask if they know anyone that might be interested.
 
  • #4


Keep trying. Research positions for an undergraduate students can be very competative and professors can't take on every student who contacts them.

Does your program have an option for an undergraduate thesis, or research project? Even if you do it for course credits, it still counts as research experience.
 
  • #5


Also, look for professors who you haven't taken but who run big labs, maybe even outside your field if you've got decent programming skills. It's a foot in the door, at least.

Also, when did you email your adviser? If you did it recently, have some patience 'cause it's the end of the semester and everything's sort of crazy.
 
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  • #6


Ok well thanks for the advice/support. I only want to good in physics, that's all.
 
  • #7


If the professors you were working with did their research in the fields you mentioned, then it is probably not good research.
 

FAQ: So I was planning on getting into research next year for my Undergrad

What is research in the context of undergraduate studies?

Research in undergraduate studies refers to the process of conducting systematic investigations and experiments to gather new knowledge and insights in a particular field of study. It involves formulating a research question, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions based on the findings.

Why should I consider getting into research as an undergraduate?

Participating in research as an undergraduate can provide valuable hands-on experience and develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. It also allows for deeper exploration of a specific topic and can be beneficial for graduate school applications or future career opportunities.

How can I get involved in research as an undergraduate?

There are various ways to get involved in research as an undergraduate, such as reaching out to professors or researchers at your university, joining a research team, or applying for research internships or programs. It is also helpful to have a clear idea of your research interests and to actively seek out opportunities in your field of interest.

What are the potential challenges of participating in research as an undergraduate?

Some potential challenges of participating in research as an undergraduate may include time management, dealing with unexpected results or setbacks, and learning how to effectively communicate and collaborate with other researchers. It may also require a significant commitment of time and effort, which can be challenging to balance with other academic and personal responsibilities.

How can I make the most out of my research experience as an undergraduate?

To make the most out of your research experience as an undergraduate, it is important to be proactive, curious, and open-minded. Take advantage of opportunities to learn new skills, ask questions, and engage in discussions with your research team. Additionally, be organized, keep a record of your work and progress, and seek feedback from your supervisor or mentor to continuously improve your research skills.

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