- #1
proton
- 350
- 0
I just finished my REU in solid state physics and must say that it was a little disappointing. I did some theoretical, but mostly experimental work. Though the theory behind it sounded very interesting when I first heard about the project, it turned out that our progress went very slowly, much slower than I expected. In addition, I did not find most of the work that my prof assigned to me to be very interesting or fun, as I had to use microsoft paint and excel alot. Also, I definitely feel that I'm not destined for experimental work because I certainly lacked motivation for experiments. For example, the other undergrad student working with me seemed a lot more interested in the lab equipment and was always thinking of different ways to solve the problems with the project. he was motivated to do more than what the prof assigned to him, whereas I wasnt. I heard that a career in research is only for those who absolutely LOVE the work and are willing to undergo the many frustrations with little things and equipment not working. also, they think about the project on their free time. again, i found the project to be interesting and fun, but not that fun, and i LIKED it but didnt LOVE it
or, is the case that I'm just not cut out to be an experimental physicist, but maybe research as a theoretical physicsit or mathematician ?
or, is the case that I'm just not cut out to be an experimental physicist, but maybe research as a theoretical physicsit or mathematician ?