What research have you been involved with at UVA?
Since my first year, I have been a research assistant in the
Clore Emotions Lab with the UVA Psychology Department. Initially, I volunteered
in the lab for a few months, to gauge whether or not I had a true interest in
research. I soon learned to love everything about it – from waiting on the IRB’s
approval, to putting in the hours of labor to conduct research procedures, and
finally to performing the data analysis. Through this opportunity I discovered
more about my academic interests and learned to effectively work with others
towards a common purpose.
I am now also one of the research assistants for the
Obstetrics and Neonatal Outcomes Study at the University of Virginia Medical
Center. The ultimate goal of this project is to improve pregnancy outcomes for
all women by creating a repository of maternal tissue samples linked to
maternal and neonatal demographic and clinical information. In this lab, I
process biological samples, handle electronic medical records, receive direct
patient interaction, and obtain unique clinical experience in a hospital
setting. It is a sweet deal, especially since I am considering Obstetrics &
Gynecology!
How has joining a
research team prepared you for a career in healthcare?
My involvement in research has greatly improved my
communication skills. I have learned how to speak effectively to a broad
population of patients. I also gained time management skills, since becoming
invested in a research project is similar to adding another class to your
schedule. My private investigator has also taught me many aspects of health
care that cannot be learned from a textbook.
Why do you recommend this
opportunity for other UVA undergraduates?
I encourage other undergrads to explore research
opportunities, because in addition to further developing your communication,
time management, and analytical skills, the project you undertake will have a
large impact on the scientific community. While obtaining important interpersonal
skills, you also have the opportunity to make a difference and improve our
understanding of various processes related to the field of study. In addition,
some majors at UVA (such as biology and psychology) allow you to conduct
research for credit. I highly recommend doing so because research is a fun and
interesting way to obtain credits towards your major.
How does one become
involved in research?
The first step is to determine which area of research you
would enjoy pursuing. Do your own research. Visit the department’s homepage,
where you will find links to all faculty members, and read about the research
being conducted at UVA. Once you have narrowed down your interest, create a
generic email template containing an introduction of yourself, your interests,
and your desire to meet with the faculty advisor to learn more about the
project. You will have to send this email to several professors, and it may
take time to finally receive a response. In my case, it took me a month before
I received a response from Professor Clore, but don’t give up hope! Utilize the
resources available through the Undergraduate
Research Network including UNLEASH.
Do you plan on
incorporating research in your future endeavors?
Yes, during my bridge year I hope to continue conducting
clinical research to deepen my experiences and understandings of the medical
field and health care. I am currently perusing possible research fellowship
options abroad. The great thing about research is that your options are limitless
because there is still much the scientific community does not understand. There
are many unexplored frontiers.
Hello! My name is
Lindsey Vu and I am one of the members-at-large on the Pre-Health Student
Leadership Advisory Board. I am currently a third-year undergraduate pursuing a
double major in Biology and Psychology on the pre-med track. I was inspired to
pursue a medical career by the doctors who treated my ill grandfather when I
was young. I saw how the physicians were not only able to treat his pain, but
also to ameliorate our worries and concerns. This compassionate, humanistic
side of medicine truly enticed me.
On Grounds, I have
been involved in several service organizations such as Medical Services, Pet
Pals, and Relay for Life. I have also held leadership positions with the
Vietnamese Student Association and The BIG Event. However, being involved in
research is what I have enjoyed the most throughout my time at UVA.
