Meeting with a Professor for Undergrad Research Tomorrow.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around preparing for a meeting with a professor regarding undergraduate research opportunities in the field of Astrophysics/Astronomy. Participants share their concerns, expectations, and strategies for the meeting, focusing on how to effectively communicate their interests and qualifications.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about what questions the professor might ask, particularly regarding their motivation for pursuing undergraduate research.
  • Another participant questions why a simple answer like "Because it's cool" may not be sufficient, indicating a concern about the depth of response expected.
  • A different participant reflects on their desire to engage in real scientific work, despite the potential for it to be mundane, and admits to feeling stressed about the meeting.
  • Advice is given to discuss relevant interests in the professor's field and to highlight personal strengths such as programming skills and writing ability.
  • One participant mentions their experience with Python and Shell Scripting, suggesting that these skills may enhance their appeal to the professor.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally share similar concerns about the meeting and the need to prepare adequately, but there is no consensus on what constitutes an appropriate response to the professor's questions.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of confidence and preparedness, with some feeling overwhelmed by expectations while others offer practical advice based on their experiences.

Who May Find This Useful

Undergraduate students considering research opportunities, particularly in STEM fields, may find this discussion relevant.

mateomy
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Hey everyone,

Tomorrow I'll be meeting with an undergraduate professor (does work in Astrophysics/Astronomy) to discuss work as an undergrad for the quarter. I know it'll mostly be grunt work and I'm not harboring any illusions on that but, I have no idea what she'll ask me during this meeting. I assume one of the things would be why I'm signing up for undergrad research. My instinctive answer is "Because it's cool", but I know that won't fly. I was wondering if anybody has experience with this and what I should be looking forward to.

Thanks.
 
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mateomy said:
I assume one of the things would be why I'm signing up for undergrad research. My instinctive answer is "Because it's cool", but I know that won't fly.
Why won't that cut it?
 
I don't know, just feels too simple. Maybe I'm wrong?
 
Maybe I'm making too big a deal out of this. But I really want to be able to get my hands into some REAL science...however grunt-ish. So I'm stressing a little because I want to help.
 
Talk about anything relevant to his field you find interesting, and emphasize any strengths you might have (programming, experience with unix, writing ability, etc). Listen very closely to what he has to say, and don't be afraid to ask about anything you don't understand.

If you know of any common interests/hobbies you might have try to end the conversation on a positive note by talking about that. Even if he doesn't have anything for you he might recommend you to another professor if he likes you. That's what ended up happening for me.
 
I know. I've been picking up on Python and Shell Scripting the last year off and on when I have the time between my normal course load. I'm hoping that helps me look better.
 

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