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The Power of Summer Research for Undergrads

Let’s talk about something that could seriously level up your college experience and future career prospects: summer research opportunities. You’ve probably heard whispers about research on campus, but have you considered taking it a step further with a summer program? Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

Why Summer Research Rocks

Summer research isn’t just about spending your break in a lab (though that can be pretty cool, too). Here’s why you should seriously consider it:

Skill Boost: You’ll gain specialized skills and techniques that you won’t typically learn in a classroom. It’s like leveling up your academic character with some rare abilities.
Network Like a Pro: You’ll connect with professors, grad students, and peers who share your passions. These connections can open doors to grad school or future careers.
Career Clarity: Not sure what you want to do after Lawrence? Summer research can help you explore different fields and clarify your career path.
Resume Gold: Let’s face it, having research experience on your resume makes you stand out like a shining star to grad schools and employers.
Personal Growth: You’ll develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that’ll serve you well in any future endeavor.

Where to Find Opportunities

Now that you’re pumped about summer research, where can you find these golden opportunities? Here are a few places to start your search:

Lawrence’s Own Resources: Check out LU Research Fellows for a list of options – it usually opens in January each year.
Pathways to Science: Visit Pathways to Science for a treasure trove of STEM research opportunities; includes REUs, SURP, and may other opportunities.
Reach Out Directly: Don’t be shy about contacting principal investigators whose research excites you. Many professors (not just ones at Lawrence) are thrilled to hear from enthusiastic students and might have unlisted opportunities.

Timing is Everything

While specific deadlines vary, here’s a general timeline to keep in mind:

Fall: Start exploring options and talking to professors.
Winter: Many applications open up. Get your materials ready!
January/February: Prime time for submitting applications.
March/April: Decisions often roll in during these months.

Remember, some programs have earlier deadlines, so start your search early!

Your Next Steps

Explore the resources mentioned above.
Chat with your professors about your interests.
Visit the Career Center for application tips.
Start drafting your application materials.

Summer research is your chance to dive deep into a subject you love, make lasting connections, and set yourself up for an awesome future. So why wait? Start exploring your options today and get ready to make this summer count!

Medscape: A Vital Resource for Pre-Med Students Exploring Medical Knowledge and Careers

Medscape is one of the leading online platforms for healthcare information, offering comprehensive resources tailored to medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and allied health practitioners. For pre-med students, Medscape serves as a powerful tool to access in-depth medical knowledge, current clinical research, career guidance, and insights into the healthcare industry. The platform’s resources are designed to provide a foundational understanding of real-world medical practices, making it invaluable for pre-med students eager to learn about the field before entering medical school.

Why Medscape is Essential for Pre-Med Students

1. Access to Current Medical News and Research

Staying informed about medical advancements and clinical research is essential for anyone considering a career in medicine. Medscape offers up-to-date news on healthcare innovations, new treatments, emerging diseases, and changes in medical protocols. Pre-med students can read about developments in fields such as oncology, cardiology, neurology, and public health, gaining insight into the issues impacting patient care and the healthcare system. This knowledge not only helps students in their studies but also builds awareness of the topics they’ll explore more deeply in medical school.

2. Understanding Various Medical Specialties

With dozens of specialty-specific sections, Medscape allows students to explore a wide range of medical fields, including surgery, emergency medicine, pediatrics, and psychiatry. Each specialty page provides case studies, treatment guidelines, diagnostic tips, and practice updates that reflect real-world clinical decision-making. For pre-med students uncertain about which specialty to pursue, Medscape offers an excellent introduction to the responsibilities, challenges, and unique knowledge required in different areas of medicine. This exposure is particularly valuable for students who want to enter medical school with a clearer sense of their interests.

3. In-Depth Case Studies and Clinical Insights

Medscape includes a range of case studies across medical disciplines, allowing students to dive into real-life scenarios encountered by healthcare providers. These case studies often present patient symptoms, examination findings, diagnostic tests, and treatment options, offering a step-by-step view of medical reasoning. By examining these cases, pre-med students can familiarize themselves with clinical terms and concepts while practicing critical thinking skills. Understanding how doctors approach differential diagnoses, order tests, and choose treatment plans provides a practical context for the medical knowledge students will study in school.

4. Career Guidance and Residency Insights

For students preparing for medical school, Medscape provides an entire section dedicated to career planning and residency guidance. Articles on topics such as choosing a specialty, preparing for the residency match process, and managing stress during medical training offer practical insights for navigating a medical career path. For pre-med students, learning about residency options, requirements, and success tips early on can help them build a strategic approach to their medical school journey. This information also helps students understand the commitment and rigor involved in a medical career, equipping them to make informed choices.

5. Medical Education and Continuing Education Modules

Although Medscape primarily serves practicing professionals, its library of medical education modules and quizzes is available to all users. These interactive resources allow pre-med students to test their knowledge and engage with material similar to what they’ll encounter in medical school. Quizzes on topics such as anatomy, pharmacology, and medical ethics provide a chance for students to review and apply their learning, reinforcing key concepts and improving retention.

6. Insight into Healthcare Ethics and Patient Interaction

Understanding ethical issues in medicine is crucial for all future doctors. Medscape publishes regular content on topics like patient consent, doctor-patient communication, and the ethical dilemmas encountered in clinical practice. These articles highlight the importance of compassionate care and ethical standards, helping pre-med students build a patient-centered mindset. Learning about these issues before medical school can prepare students to engage thoughtfully with ethical considerations when they begin interacting with patients in clinical settings.

7. Free Registration and Mobile Accessibility

One of the advantages of Medscape is that registration is free, making it accessible to all pre-med students. The platform is available as a website and mobile app, allowing students to browse articles, watch videos, and take quizzes from anywhere. The mobile app, in particular, is a convenient option for students to explore medical knowledge on the go or in between study sessions. By making Medscape part of their daily routine, pre-med students can gradually build their medical knowledge base over time.

How to Get Started with Medscape

Creating an account on Medscape is simple. Students can register for free on the website or through the mobile app by entering their email and basic details. After registration, students gain access to thousands of articles, case studies, and interactive resources, all at their fingertips. With its intuitive design and tailored content, Medscape makes it easy to find information on specific medical topics or browse general areas of interest.

Conclusion

For pre-med students, Medscape represents an invaluable resource that combines educational content, clinical insights, and career guidance in a single, accessible platform. The knowledge gained from Medscape not only prepares students for medical school but also gives them a glimpse into the day-to-day realities of patient care and medical decision-making. Whether exploring specialties, staying informed on medical advancements, or engaging with case studies, Medscape equips pre-med students with a solid foundation to begin their journey in the medical field.

Dennis Boakye ’26 is a junior with a major in Neuroscience and a minor in Mathematics. He is also a co-president of the Neurolawrence Club and the Synthetic Biology Club and the treasurer for the American Medical Student Association (AMSA, Lawrence Chapter) and the Black Student Union (BSU). Dennis is the current career peer educator for the Health and Medicinal Professions (HMP) and the Physical and Natural Sciences (PHN) career communities at Lawrence University. Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn.

Science Careers: A Career-Building Resource for Physical and Natural Sciences Students

Science Careers, a platform by the journal Science, is designed to provide resources, guidance, and opportunities tailored to students and professionals in the physical and natural sciences. This site is particularly valuable for students looking to pursue diverse roles in research, academia, government, and industry. With a dedicated career center, Science Careers offers job postings, career advice articles, and information about various scientific career paths, including emerging roles and specialized fields like environmental science, physics, chemistry, and earth sciences.

Why Physical and Natural Sciences Students Should Use Science Careers

1. Comprehensive Job Listings and Internships: Science Careers posts job listings and internships across a wide range of scientific disciplines, allowing students to find opportunities that align with their skills and career goals. From research assistant roles to full-time positions in industry and government, these listings are invaluable for students aiming to gain relevant experience early on.

2. Guidance for Graduate School and Research Careers: The site offers advice for students considering graduate studies, including articles on preparing for PhD programs, applying for research funding, and navigating the academic job market. This is especially helpful for students interested in advancing their education and pursuing careers in research or academia.

3. Career Advice from Experienced Professionals: Articles and resources on Science Careers often feature insights from experienced scientists, who share real-world advice on building a career in science. Topics include writing grants, publishing research, networking, and transitioning from academia to industry, providing valuable guidance for students at all stages of their educational journey.

4. Exploring Non-Traditional Science Careers: Physical and natural sciences students who may want to explore non-lab-based roles, such as science communication, policy, and management, will find relevant resources on Science Careers. The platform frequently highlights alternative careers, making it a versatile resource for students with varied interests within the sciences.

5. Stay Informed on Industry Trends and Opportunities: The platform includes updates on scientific industry trends, funding opportunities, and advancements in fields like biotechnology, environmental science, and materials science. Staying informed helps students understand the current job landscape and make strategic decisions about their career paths.

For students in the physical and natural sciences, Science Careers provides a well-rounded set of tools and information to help them transition smoothly from academia to their chosen professions. It’s an essential resource for discovering opportunities, making informed decisions, and gaining insights from the scientific community.

LinkedIn Groups: A Resource for STEM Students Seeking Networking, Knowledge, and Career Growth

LinkedIn Groups are an invaluable resource for STEM students, offering access to a professional network, industry knowledge, and academic insights. For students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, joining LinkedIn Groups like “STEM Students and Professionals,” “Engineering Graduates Network,” or “Future Scientists and Researchers” provides a platform to connect with both peers and established professionals in their fields.

Why STEM Students Should Use LinkedIn Groups

1. Networking with Professionals and Mentors:

STEM fields are vast and often require guidance on specialized paths, whether in academia, research, industry, or healthcare. LinkedIn Groups give students the chance to connect with mentors, alumni, and other professionals who can provide career insights, offer advice on choosing specializations, and share practical tips for succeeding in STEM careers. This network-building can lead to mentorships, internships, and even job opportunities, making LinkedIn Groups an essential resource for career development.

2. Access to Exclusive Resources and Job Opportunities:

Many groups focus on sharing niche resources such as internship listings, research opportunities, conferences, and webinars that are directly relevant to STEM students. Group members frequently post about available positions, application tips, and industry-related workshops, making LinkedIn a powerful tool for students looking to build experience and broaden their skills. These resources can give STEM students a competitive edge as they prepare to enter the workforce.

3. Staying Informed on Industry Trends and Innovations:

STEM fields are constantly evolving with advancements in technology, scientific research, and industry practices. LinkedIn Groups act as a hub where students can stay updated on new developments, emerging technologies, and trends. By participating in group discussions and following relevant threads, students can deepen their understanding of real-world issues and advancements in areas like biotechnology, data science, and environmental science. This knowledge can be particularly valuable for students as they choose career paths and areas of expertise.

4. Gaining Insights into Graduate Programs and Academic Pathways:

For STEM students considering graduate studies, LinkedIn Groups offer a wealth of information on topics like research programs, funding opportunities, and graduate school application advice. Members often share their experiences, from navigating rigorous academic paths to obtaining research funding and balancing school with work. These insights can be instrumental in helping students make informed decisions about their future academic goals.

5. Learning from Real-World Experiences and Case Studies:

Many LinkedIn Groups focus on discussing real-world challenges and case studies, allowing STEM students to gain practical knowledge beyond the classroom. These discussions can include troubleshooting engineering problems, solving complex coding challenges, or exploring case studies in scientific research. By engaging with these conversations, students can gain valuable insights into the day-to-day challenges they may face in their future careers.

For STEM students, LinkedIn Groups provide more than just a place to connect; they are a rich source of knowledge, resources, and career guidance that can significantly enhance their educational and professional journey. Engaging in these communities allows students to stay ahead in their fields, connect with mentors, and prepare for a successful transition from academia to the professional world.

Insights from an Interview with a Psychology Student Worker at Lawrence University

Current Roles and Responsibilities:

A junior Psychology major at Lawrence University, this student worker manages two distinct roles on campus: teaching assistant (TA) in the Chinese department and mailroom assistant. As a TA, she tutors students in Mandarin twice a week, prepares class content, and grades homework. She describes the TA role as challenging yet rewarding, noting that it “helps me think from the professor’s perspective,” especially when planning content that effectively engages and supports students. Her second role, as a mailroom assistant, involves interacting with people throughout the day, assisting them with package pick-ups and deliveries. This job, she shares, has helped her develop her “people skills” through regular interactions with students and faculty.

Skills Gained:

Through her campus jobs, she has cultivated various skills, particularly in teaching and communication. As a TA, she has learned “what kind of materials students prefer” and how to communicate in ways that enhance their understanding of Mandarin. Working in the mailroom has further strengthened her interpersonal skills. “Talking to people when they come to the mailroom and helping them… helps improve my people skills,” she said. These experiences have given her confidence and practical skills that she feels are “very beneficial” for her future career.

Balancing Responsibilities:

Balancing academics with her work responsibilities has been challenging, especially with her TA role, which requires significant preparation time outside of tutoring hours. “I just use as much time as I can in between classes or during lunch breaks to get things done,” she explained. For the mailroom job, she appreciates that she can sometimes work on her homework when it’s less busy, which helps her manage time more effectively.

Challenges Faced and How She Overcomes Them:

Time management has been her biggest challenge, especially when it comes to her TA role, where the workload doesn’t follow a strict schedule. She describes the TA work as “another homework assignment” that requires consistent effort each week. “I think I need to improve my efficiency,” she admits, explaining that balancing work with academics requires learning to “do more within a short period of time.”

Most Enjoyable Aspects of Her Roles:

She finds both roles rewarding in unique ways. As a mailroom assistant, she enjoys the social aspect of the job, meeting new people and catching up with friends who pass through. As a TA, she finds satisfaction in seeing her students’ progress. “It’s very nice to see them learn new stuff and get better at the language,” she shared, adding that witnessing their improvement over time is both inspiring and fulfilling.

Future Career Connections:

Although she’s not entirely sure of her long-term career plans, she’s open to potentially pursuing a teaching role in academia after graduate school. The TA experience, she believes, will be valuable if she chooses to continue in an educational setting. “If I go to grad school or even teach in the future, these skills are helpful,” she explained. She also emphasized that communication and problem-solving skills are transferable to any career path and are qualities she’s actively developing through her campus jobs.

Advice for Other Students:

For students considering similar roles, she offers practical advice: “Work in something that you at least do not hate or, ideally, something you like.” She notes that some campus jobs, like the mailroom, are flexible, which allows students to make use of downtime for personal work. Her overall recommendation is to choose roles that feel enjoyable or rewarding, rather than jobs chosen solely for the paycheck.

Reflecting on Work-Life Balance:

As a final piece of advice, she encourages students to reflect on their schedules each term and carefully consider whether they can manage the maximum 20-hour weekly work limit. “Don’t push yourself too hard,” she advised. She’s learned that while 20 hours of work may be manageable for some, it’s important to leave space for rest and balance, especially during busy terms. “Sometimes, just give yourself a little rest or break,” she added.

Reflection

My conversation with this student worker gave me valuable insights into managing multiple responsibilities on campus, particularly with roles that require both academic and interpersonal skills. Her experience as both a teaching assistant and a mailroom assistant demonstrates a balance of structured teaching and flexible, interactive work, providing her with a range of skills applicable to future career paths. What stood out most was her thoughtful approach to balancing time between her studies and her jobs. Her experience of filling in moments between classes or lunch breaks to get work done is something I resonate with and could incorporate into my own schedule. Her adaptability and use of every available moment are qualities I admire, as they reflect an efficient and practical way of managing busy days.

Her challenges with time management and the added workload from her TA responsibilities also struck a chord with me. I related to her description of TA work as “another homework assignment” with no fixed hours. Her openness about needing to improve her efficiency was refreshing and motivating, reminding me that even small gains in time management can make a significant difference in balancing academics and work. One of the most inspiring parts of our conversation was her reflection on the satisfaction of seeing students progress. Her description of watching students “get better at the language” reminded me of the fulfillment I find in helping others, whether through tutoring or club activities. This aspect of her role reinforces the value of teaching as not only a way to help others but also as a way to grow and gain perspective.

Her advice about choosing enjoyable work resonated with me deeply. “Work in something that you at least do not hate,” she said, which reminded me of the importance of choosing roles that bring personal fulfillment or interest. It’s easy to fall into the habit of taking on roles solely for financial gain or to fill time, but she reminded me to prioritize enjoyment in my work. Her suggestion to find flexible jobs that allow time for personal work also aligns with my goals, as balancing academics with work is a constant challenge. Lastly, her advice on not pushing oneself too hard was a reminder to think carefully about my commitments each term. She reflected on her experience of overworking and the importance of planning for downtime, which was a helpful reminder that rest is necessary for sustained productivity and well-being.

To conclude, this conversation highlighted the value of balancing work with personal interests, cultivating skills that are transferable to future careers, and maintaining a focus on well-being. Her experience balancing two roles with her academic goals has inspired me to evaluate my own commitments and consider how I can approach my work more mindfully.

Insights from an Interview with a Physics and Mathematics Student Worker at Lawrence University

Day-to-Day Responsibilities:

A junior at Lawrence University majoring in Mathematics and Physics, this student worker manages an impressive array of responsibilities on campus. In addition to his studies, he holds multiple roles as a teaching assistant, tutor, and dishroom worker. He is also actively involved in clubs and organizations such as the LU rock climbing club, the Society of Physics Students, and, when his schedule permits, the sustainability board. These roles, though varied, reflect his dedication to both his academic interests and the broader Lawrence community. As he put it, “I don’t think I do anything this time that I don’t enjoy to some extent,” demonstrating his commitment to balancing enjoyment with productivity.

Typical Daily Schedule:

A typical day for this student begins as early as possible, balancing coursework and club activities. Classes usually start around 10:00 a.m., and the rest of his day is packed with tutoring or teaching sessions, club meetings, and study sessions. Weekdays are often booked until 5:00 p.m. or later, while weekends offer a slightly more flexible schedule, with time for additional meetings and hobbies like rock climbing. He also dedicates time to fitness and climbing as a way to recharge and stay balanced amid his commitments. As he explained, “I usually have to be done with most responsibilities like meetings and stuff by 5:00 p.m. or sometimes as late as 9:30, but I try to keep my weekends more free.”

Skills Gained:

From his various roles, he has developed a host of skills, including time management, leadership, and adaptability. With a tight schedule, he has honed the ability to communicate efficiently and manage tasks effectively. “When you have a schedule that’s somewhat tight, you have to be effective,” he noted, “otherwise things can disappear.” Additionally, he’s picked up problem-solving skills through club activities, whether it’s managing budgets for robotics or planning new events for rock climbing. His involvement in diverse activities has cultivated a broader adaptability that he believes is difficult to track but undeniably valuable.

Balancing Responsibilities:

He balances his responsibilities by choosing roles that align with his personal interests and goals. He emphasized that enjoyment is crucial to sustaining such a busy schedule, and he selects roles he feels passionate about. “A lot of it is about skills I gain from all of them,” he said, “like becoming more adaptable when I don’t have much time.” Whether it’s contributing to sustainability efforts or creating a stronger rock-climbing community, each activity provides personal fulfillment and aligns with his broader aspirations.

Favorite Aspects of His Roles:

When asked what he enjoys most, he highlighted working with people in math and physics, where he can tackle complex problems collaboratively. “I enjoy the problem-solving aspect,” he said, “and working with other scientists to find a solution to something.” In sustainability, he values the opportunity to make a positive impact on the Lawrence community. For rock climbing, he enjoys introducing others to a sport he loves, and as a teaching assistant, he appreciates the reciprocal learning process that teaching affords. Though he does not plan to pursue teaching as a career, he finds that helping others enhances his own understanding. “As a learner, I feel like you learn best when you teach each other,” he explained.

Impact on Lawrence Experience:

He reflected on how his roles have positively impacted his experience at Lawrence by allowing him to meet diverse individuals with unique perspectives. “In general, Lawrence has good people,” he said. “You get to meet a lot of different people who are doing all kinds of things, and it helps you become more open-minded.” He believes that interacting with people from different backgrounds has broadened his understanding and fostered greater open-mindedness, ultimately making him a more adaptable problem solver.

Advice for Other Students:

One insight he shared was his wish to have taken on more responsibilities earlier. “I guess I wish I had taken more responsibilities in my first year,” he reflected. “Doing different things actually gives you a break from other things and lets you come back to them with a fresh mind.” He realized that engaging in various roles could have introduced him to a wider range of skills sooner. His advice to find responsibilities that provide a mental shift during heavy academic work is both practical and insightful.

Future Goals:

Looking ahead, he plans to continue his academic journey in graduate school, possibly studying abroad and exploring internship opportunities in other countries. For his club involvements, he’s working to build a foundation for younger students to lead in future years. “The next steps for the clubs is finding younger people to take over,” he explained. Career-wise, he hopes to deepen his knowledge of mathematics and science, setting his sights on a meaningful and impactful career.

Reflection

My recent conversation with a student worker and active campus leader at Lawrence University provided a unique perspective on balancing academic pursuits with a multitude of extracurricular roles. As someone also deeply involved in various clubs and responsibilities, I found his approach to balancing work, academics, and personal interests insightful and motivating. One of the most impactful aspects of our conversation was his focus on aligning his responsibilities with his passions and goals. “I don’t think I do anything this time that I don’t enjoy to some extent,” he said, confirming the importance of selecting commitments that bring personal enjoyment and professional growth. Hearing about his experience reminded me to evaluate my own commitments, ensuring they align with my interests and long-term goals rather than simply filling time.

Another highlight was his adaptability and effective time management. His ability to manage a rigorous schedule, including tutoring, working in the dining hall, and leading club activities, impressed me and reinforced the value of developing these skills. “When you have a schedule that’s somewhat tight, you have to be effective,” he shared, underscoring the importance of efficient time use. His approach to managing multiple roles has inspired me to be more deliberate in tracking and improving my adaptability and efficiency. Additionally, his reflections on his role as a teaching assistant and tutor resonated with my own experiences. His emphasis on the reciprocal benefits of teaching, where explaining concepts helps reinforce one’s own understanding, reminded me of similar moments in my academic journey. As he explained, “I feel like you learn best when you teach each other.” This encouraged me to continue exploring this role as both a teacher and a student.

One aspect of his advice that struck me was his wish to have taken on more responsibilities sooner. “Doing different things actually gives you a break from other things and lets you come back to them with a fresh mind,” he noted. Engaging in multiple activities, he explained, can often bring new perspectives to problem-solving. His suggestion to find responsibilities that break up academic work was also insightful and practical. Looking toward the future, his goals for graduate school and studying abroad opened my eyes to broader possibilities beyond undergraduate studies. His plans to pass on leadership within his clubs remind me that current involvement has a meaningful impact on future students. I feel encouraged to consider how I, too, can support the next generation within my own organizations.

In sum, this conversation reinforced the importance of aligning my roles with personal goals, embracing adaptability, and considering the impact of current actions on future students. His journey as a student worker and active campus leader exemplifies resilience, curiosity, and dedication to meaningful involvement. His experiences and advice left me feeling both motivated and better equipped to approach my responsibilities with intentionality and enthusiasm.

Dennis Boakye ’26 is a rising junior with a major in Neuroscience and a minor in Mathematics. He is also a co-president of the Neurolawrence Club and the Synthetic Biology Club and the treasurer for the American Medical Student Association (AMSA, Lawrence Chapter) and the Black Student Union (BSU). Dennis is the current career peer educator for the Health and Medicinal Professions (HMP) and the Physical and Natural Sciences (PHN) career communities at Lawrence University. Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn.

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