I have been working as an undergraduate research assistant with Dr. Corinne Datchi in the Couple and Family Studies (CFR) Laboratory for about a year. Having learned to do literature research and to collect data for literature review, I both improve my research skills and make more successful assignments by applying these skills to the assignments of the classes I take. Also, working in the research lab allowed me to strengthen my communication skills within the group. In addition, having research experience helps me prepare for the research-intensive graduate programs I will be applying to next month.
What I wish was different
Everyone who works in the CFR Lab has a dense schedule. The only thing I would have wished to be different about the laboratory would be to schedule more meetings and go on a long way in research.
Advice
I believe that every individual with a passion for research and who wishes to pursue a research-intensive graduate program should have undergraduate research experience and broaden their horizons.
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Peer Health Advocate
May 2018 • Wayne, NJ
What I liked
I appreciate the people, and how they found me a job to do for them that fit in with my major. I am a Media Production major, and they gave me the opportunity to create videos for the Center we were at in addition to the usual work. I appreciated this opportunity and the experience in my field it gave me.
What I wish was different
This was my first professional job, so all issues I had with it did fall on me. I wish there had been more of a "crash course" of how to transition to a professional job, but I understand that my job did not have to provide this for me or other employees.
Advice
I would recommend always being prompt and on-time. I would also recommend to accept all opportunities as they come, even if they initially seem like a lot.
