Research: with a professor or at a summer program?

Mwfan1921
Thu, 16 Feb 2023 16:45:40 +0000

blossom:

Correlation is NOT causation. Kids getting in to a research program who then get into top research U’s does not mean that “doing research” is better/worse than other EC’s, it just means that those kids tend to have OTHER things that Adcom’s look for.

This seems directed at my post, and I certainly didn’t say nor imply doing research means the student will get into a highly rejective school.

I pointed out the fact that some schools value research as that’s what they communicate at student admissions sessions, press releases, counselor meetings, etc. I clearly stated that we don’t know how research stacks up with the other things they also value, e.g., ECs like working or athletics or community service etc.

Lindagaf:

Interesting, but this is someone from Penn, right?

Yes, this is from Whitney Soule, Dean of Admissions at Penn. I agree with you that many schools value working and volunteering as well, including Penn (it’s right there in the press release). It’s impossible to say whether any of these are perceived to be great than another because it’s so subjective and context is also important.

Hopefully, OP will find ample opportunities for interesting ECs and research, if that’s what they decide to do.