Research: with a professor or at a summer program?

mountainsoul
Thu, 16 Feb 2023 17:34:59 +0000

I do think AOs value research, but I also feel any EC that demonstrates commitment and perseverance is viewed favorably. That could be a job or a volunteer gig. This comment hits the mark:

worriedmomucb:

The best research opportunity is one where you feel deeply engaged in the topic, invested in the research question, competently guided/supported/mentored, and inspired and curious to keep digging deeper into the data

One of my kids did independent research that received external validation at multiple levels, but pursuit of accolades was never the goal. The work was driven by genuine curiosity and pursuit of knowledge.

On purely egalitarian grounds, I disdain paid research programs. But, for students with a genuine interest in research who perhaps need structure and can afford to pay to play, they fill a niche. It’s probably also an easy way to get a decent letter of recommendation.

As far as prestige of program, I don’t think it matters. There are many threads on here created by students who are confused as to why they weren’t accepted to xyz college after participating in its summer program. Ultimately, the value of research lies in doing the actual work (of which drudgery and setbacks are common) and determining whether research is a path of interest.