Is it a good or bad idea to do research during the semester?

[vancouver_water]

Taking a break from studying for finals, so I thought I'd ask something I've been wondering.

I'm going to start my second semester of second year in January and I was hoping to get some research experience. I'm applying to REUs for the summer but until then I wanted to do research (or be a lab assistant, since I don't really know anything being in second year). I'll be in 17 credit hours next term and I can drop a maximum of 3 credits and stay in my program. Would it be worth it to drop 1 class and do a little bit of lab work next term or better to focus on my classes?

Thanks!

 

[Dishsoap]

I say this as an undergrad, but yes, you absolutely should. Doing research looks much better on a grad school application than taking anyone class.

Maybe someone who actually knows things can back me up here.