Hi everyone,
I have been volunteering with the Rehabilitation Psychology Research Lab for over a year now. I will be finishing my degree in Honours Biology-Chemistry with a minor in Psychology next year, and in the future I hope to study medicine. My time with the lab has been spent mainly working on data collection for projects researching the role of electronic support groups for people with chronic pain (specifically, fibromyalgia). This position has given me a unique perspective into how the lives of individuals with fibromyalgia are impacted due to their condition and the daily struggles with which they are faced. For example, given that fibromyalgia is an invisible condition, many individuals must deal with the fact that people around them do
I have been volunteering with the Rehabilitation Psychology Research Lab for over a year now. I will be finishing my degree in Honours Biology-Chemistry with a minor in Psychology next year, and in the future I hope to study medicine. My time with the lab has been spent mainly working on data collection for projects researching the role of electronic support groups for people with chronic pain (specifically, fibromyalgia). This position has given me a unique perspective into how the lives of individuals with fibromyalgia are impacted due to their condition and the daily struggles with which they are faced. For example, given that fibromyalgia is an invisible condition, many individuals must deal with the fact that people around them do
not understand the nature and severity of their symptoms. Most of all, this project has emphasized the importance of social support for individuals with chronic pain as well as the prevalence of mental health issues experienced by these individuals.
One of the many reasons I love volunteering in the lab is that it provides the opportunity to deep-dive into one specific area of psychology for an extended period of time. In class, we typically spend no more than a week on each individual topic, which unfortunately often means there is only time to scrape the surface of each subject. Working in a lab is a great chance to connect with other students and professors in the department while gaining valuable skills no matter what direction you plan to head in the future. I would encourage all students to get started in a lab as early as possible, as that can only help you discover where your interests lie. If you are hoping to pursue graduate studies in psychology, the more research experience on your resume the better. In addition, the earlier you begin working in a lab the more time you will have to explore multiple areas of research before applying to grad programs. Conversely, research experience in psychology, particularly health psychology, is relevant to a variety of fields, especially health professions. In my experience, the best way to get involved is by looking up the research interests of professors in the department and reaching out via email or dropping by during office hours. It is a great chance to meet people, add to your resume, and gain skills that will undoubtedly help you in any future endeavor!
Molly (4th Year undergraduate student)
One of the many reasons I love volunteering in the lab is that it provides the opportunity to deep-dive into one specific area of psychology for an extended period of time. In class, we typically spend no more than a week on each individual topic, which unfortunately often means there is only time to scrape the surface of each subject. Working in a lab is a great chance to connect with other students and professors in the department while gaining valuable skills no matter what direction you plan to head in the future. I would encourage all students to get started in a lab as early as possible, as that can only help you discover where your interests lie. If you are hoping to pursue graduate studies in psychology, the more research experience on your resume the better. In addition, the earlier you begin working in a lab the more time you will have to explore multiple areas of research before applying to grad programs. Conversely, research experience in psychology, particularly health psychology, is relevant to a variety of fields, especially health professions. In my experience, the best way to get involved is by looking up the research interests of professors in the department and reaching out via email or dropping by during office hours. It is a great chance to meet people, add to your resume, and gain skills that will undoubtedly help you in any future endeavor!
Molly (4th Year undergraduate student)
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