Conducting independent research without being part of a professor's group is challenging due to the lack of collaboration and resources. Engaging with fellow researchers is crucial for sharing ideas and gaining experience. It's important to consider your academic background, including your year, major, GPA, and completed courses, as these factors can influence the type of research opportunities available. For those interested in teaching, accessible projects in physics education exist. While applying for formal research opportunities like R.E.U.s may not be an option, reaching out to professors for unpaid positions can provide valuable experience and potentially lead to future paid opportunities.
