Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Summer Research - for a Postbac and International student.

I am looking for a summer research position that pays so I can save up money to buy airplane ticket and come back home for a week or two during the summer. Searching for one is exciting yet challenging. During January, I browsed hundreds of summer research websites to pulled out several ones that may be open to me, as a Postbac Premed student and an international student. The Postbac premed program is not yet popular and most of programs do not know how to approach such a profile. Should I be considered as an undergrad premed student?

I missed the critical timing for research opportunities, I vividly realize. If I were a first, second or third year student and an American student, there would be 300 times more of opportunites open to me!

I am still hearing from several more places. So far, I've got couple rejections already. It was quite disappointing! Lets just keep hopes. I just need one of them, and the Siteman Cancer position that I want most still remains unrevealed, which to me, means hope.

I don't like to brag but that would hinder me from showing my full capability. I learn a lesson from the interview with CRSTI. Next time, I would practice mock interviews more with friends, thoroughly investigate what they are looking for to express my qualities and experiences regarding to that. I would be aware of the questions: "So what can we get from you?", "What is the disappointing/ affirming moment of research?" Each application or interview helps me to self-discover, self-examining which prepare me with a step closer to the goal of getting into medical school. Of course, I would be happier if I can get a position confirmed. However, if it does not bear fruit, the whole searching/ applying process with help from friends is not at all in vain. I obviously learned.

By the way, fingers crossed for more decisions on their way. Fingers crossed!

P/S: I am drinking Chai tea that Sai made for me. I love the taste. Sai said that she would give everyone a gift before she leaves, a gift that reminds each person about Sai. Tonight, I will cook some noodle for the Potluck at Promita's place. Chris is studying across from my seat. I am studying at Becker library. It's Spring Break, I am taking care of Allison's kitten when she is back to New York and Fannie may come this week to join me soon. :D