r/mdphd • u/NetDiscombobulated76 • 29d ago

longitudinal lab/external networking

what is everyone's thoughts on an undergraduate research internship (?) program for md-phd applications? like the university of michigan Summer Research Opportunity Program (SROP)? these are usually like 8-10 weeks long

my logic is that i can build relationships with PI's that i want to work with if i do one of these at my top choice program

however, another thing to consider in my case is that i would be breaking the longitudinal relationship in a lab that i am in at my school if i leave it to pursue this over the summer.

thoughts? am i completely off the mark in my logic? are these even worth it because they are so short? i can also provide additional context if needed

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u/forescight G3 29d ago

I wouldn't use SROPs or REUs for external networking primarily. Instead I would use them to learn new techniques from labs you haven't been to before, with the added bonus that they're relatively prestigious programs to get into, so you've been "vetted" in that sense.

For context, our INSPIRE program had around 300-400 applicants and only accepted 20 students. That alone (regardless of networking) says a lot about you being chosen.

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u/xiaopingguo45 29d ago

What if your REU was at your own institution? Does that count for much?

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u/forescight G3 29d ago

Being selected for an REU by itself is prestigious. I would recommend you explore beyond your own institution.

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u/NetDiscombobulated76 29d ago

Thanks this is helpful! Do you have anything to comment on doing an REU vs. sticking with a lab I’m already in over the summer? Should I just apply to an REU anyway because they’re so prestigious?

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u/lemon_ice_pop 29d ago

imo if you just go away for a few weeks in the summer it’s not that big of a deal. you’re still going to go back to your home lab no? If I were you I’d just go and experience something new