Researchers

Guest

I am a student at a university in Texas. I would like to learn about opportunities to accompany and assist researchers on trips like yours. Where do I go to learn...apply?

Joined: 23 Mar 2004 Posts: 64

Hello,
I was going to say "I am so sorry" in response to your comment about being a Longhorn, since I am an Aggie, but my friend Edith would not allow it! She is a Longhorn currently in a UT program in El Paso and is one of the student researchers on this trip. Often when we are in pictures together I download them to find her doing a "Hook 'Em" while I have my thumb up in a "Gig 'Em" and we get a good laugh out of in. Actually, some of my best friends are Longhorns!

Phil Lane, a senior at Cornell University who is doing KappLinne meteorology/geology research and Melanie Schimek from Mancato State University who is studying the hydrology and geology of Lake Linne with us suggest that you visit the NSF web site http://www.nsf.gov/home/crssprgm/reu/start.htm and check out the REU area which stands for Research Experience for Undergraduates.

There are several ways you can become involved in a program after learning about it. Probably your department chair or advisor can lead you in the right direction for various programs, but you can also get the ball rolling yourself with a little search work. Generally the application process takes place between September and January for projects the following summer. Identify the principle investigators and make contact to let them know you are interested, ask to be placed on a notification list, make sure you have professors who are willing to provide you with the necessary references, and start putting together a resume and bio if you don't already have them. Be prepared to represent yourself in your best way, but also make sure the experience is the right one for you for the right reasons. Just making an application to a program like this can be a real opportunity to learn, and though you might not make it all the way through to selection the first time out, you will be ahead of the game next try because you have taken the time to prepare your background info and resources.

Do an Internet search to find out about previous programs in areas that interest you and contact the PIs and past participants asking them to tell you briefly about their experience, requesting that they suggest future opportunities they know about.

It is all about the networking! Be willing to return the favor upon your return from wherever you end up. Good Luck![/url]

Guest

some day I may join you, but only when all aggies and longhorns are off the team. i think important stuff like this should be left to FSU Seminloles.

Guest

some day I may join you, but only when all aggies and longhorns are off the team. i think important stuff like this should be left to FSU Seminoles.

Joined: 23 Mar 2004 Posts: 64

And now you have captured a piece of my heart! Long before I ever became an Aggie, I was a Seminole (Go 'Noles!). I lived in Tallahassee for a few years and taught at W.T. Moore and for Leon County Continuing Education. Some of the facilitators I hired for an after-school and summer educational enhancement program attended Lincoln High School. My husband was an ROTC Prof. and we were very active within the FSU student community. Many great memories! Hanging out at the Pub, post-game parties at our house, and enjoying a variety of cadet activities. I even took a few graduate courses in my spare time. This was some time ago, like in the early 80's, but FSU is indeed still special to me. Some of that Seminole Spirit will be an asset to whatever project you participate in. Good Luck!