Neuropsychology Central

neffer1301 · Joined: 11 Apr 2005 Posts: 1 Location: Lake Tahoe, CA

Hello, I'm so happy to have finally found somewhere to get my questions answered! Anyways, I am mostly interested in doing research in terms of finding cures for alziemers, depression, siezures, etc. I'm currently working on my undergrad degree in psychology and I need to know what I need to plan for next. Do I apply to grad school? med school? How far do I need to go in my education to get started in the field?

tob7799 · Joined: 28 Apr 2005 Posts: 6 Location: Los Angeles

Really, the answer to that question depends on you. What type of research do you want to get involved in, and how involved to you want to be?

This might surprise you, but you could (an maybe should) be doing research RIGHT NOW as an undergraduate student. Look at the research interests of the faculty in your school's psychology (and also try the Neurology and Psychiatry depts.). If there are anyone whose research interests you, contact him or her and see if they need a research assistant. You can probably get course credit for your work. Of course, you probably won't be doing major hands-on work but it will get your feet wet.

After you graduate, again you can find work in a laboratory doing the type of research you described. You will have the opportunity to do more hands-on work. For example, after I got a B.A. in psychology I worked in a clinical neuropsychology lab studying the effects of temporal lobe surgery on epilepsy patients. I worked closely with the patients, and did a lot of great research working for a professor in a medical center.

I am now perusing a Ph.D. degree in clinical neuropsychology. I made that personal choice because I want the freedom to pursue my own research interests and to personally steer the direction of my research. A Ph.D. is not necessary though, I have always been very proud of what I accomplished while working for someone else. You may find that a similar amount of involvement is right for you.

I suggest that you go slowly within the process. Take the time to figure out what exactly you want to do. Remember, everything adds valuable experience that will strengthen your qualification if you do decide to take the next step.

Good Luck!