Whether you’re a physicist, engineer, or a mathematician, there are various research projects of which you can be a part; with so many choices, it can seem overwhelming to find the perfect fit for you.

I’m a Mathematics and Psychology double major, so when I wanted to venture into research, I wasn’t quite sure where to start. Since research in the field of mathematics seemed daunting to me, I decided to volunteer at the Psychology Brain Imaging lab that was involved in better understanding the mechanisms of the motor cortex. I am deeply fascinated by the workings of the human brain, so I knew I would enjoy the experience, but I couldn’t possibly predict the true effects of my participation. I started with some regular tasks such as loading human subjects into the fMRI machine and making sure the programs that controlled the machines were running correctly, but I was soon propelled into a different world where I used MATLAB to analyze the data that had been collected. I found myself writing code to accomplish the tasks that my mentor wished to achieve, and I taught myself more and more about the program as required. By joining the lab, I was able to learn more about myself and find something that really suited my abilities and interests.

When I left the position, I was equipped with programming experience in MATLAB, a skill which would help me find an internship at the Center for Energy Efficient Materials (CEEM) a year later. I am now working on hands-on research in compound semiconductor nanocomposites and writing MATLAB programs that can help visualize the activity at the nano-level. Although I’m new to the physics realm, I’m really fascinated by the work that I’m doing everyday, and it’s quickly convincing me to try and fit a physics minor into my already hectic schedule just so I can learn more. Hopefully, I can work up the courage to start research in mathematics (maybe even a senior thesis!); I know that I’m learning skills throughout my journey that will make me better equipped for that project.

An initial hesitation with exploring research may be the uncertainty of knowing whether or not you’ll like your project. My experience has taught me that whether or not it’s something that you decide to spend the rest of your career studying, the skills that you pick up in these opportunities are invaluable. The undergraduate research experience is unique in that one still has the time to change through different projects; it allows the freedom to find your niche in the research community so that your passion and interest are clearly reflected in the work you accomplish. The best way to find where you belong is to get involved in a project that really interests you, and you can learn more about yourself from there. Remember: it’s never too early to start!