Northwestern asserts that, “Research, at its core, is about passion and exploration.” During their time here at NU, many students will take advantage of the many opportunities to conduct research with faculty. Every student should participate in research in some form or another, but it may not always be possible to be the one conducting the study or experiment. Some students have to work three jobs to financially support themselves while enrolled here and just don’t have the time. Others may not feel comfortable taking charge of such a large responsibility. Situations like these are totally understandable but shouldn’t completely prevent any student from making a contribution. The next best way to contribute to NU’s research is to participate as a subject in a study or experiment.
Of all the benefits of being a research participant, the most obvious is the researcher’s gained insight. In any school, it can be hard to spread the word about something such as a particular experiment. Consequently, some researchers have trouble finding qualified subjects. Being a participant will make the lives of the researchers much easier. On top of that, the research at NU could be huge. Imagine being a part of a study that helped change the world. That is definitely a possible outcome of some of the research being done on campus.
Studies can also be fun. I recently participated in a cognitive neuroscience nap study in which I wore an electroencephalogram, or EEG, cap. That was the first time I ever wore that kind of device; it was so awesome to get to see my own brain waves on a screen. Also, I am planning to major in psychology and cognitive science, and I love experiencing new things, so it was interesting and educational for me. This study inspired me to conduct research during my time here at NU, and maybe in the future I will end up leading a study similar to this one.
When thinking of “research,” people often associate the term with science, but this is not the case at NU. While a lot of purely scientific research exists, other studies exist in foreign languages, Kellogg School of Management and more. A study likely exists to match any student’s interests, so if science isn’t thrilling to you, rest assured there are other studies to choose from.
Most research is easy to get involved with and is also compensated. Of all the studies I have participated in, I have received $10 for every hour of my time. As for ease, for a French language study I answered some questions on a computer and then filled out a test-like document. For the cognitive neuroscience study, I got to sleep for an hour and a half. Basically, these studies are a good use of time, and there is compensation. Furthermore, I have never been told that there is no room for me to be a subject in a particular study — there are always opportunities to join.
When it comes down to it, there really is no reason not to give up a bit of time to be a subject in a study. There are usually no risks involved, at least not in any of the studies I have been involved in, and benefits exist for participants and researchers. If conducting research isn’t a possibility, or even if it is, I’d highly recommend participating in at least one study here at NU.
Katy Vines is a Weinberg freshman. She can be reached at [email protected]. If you would like to respond publicly to this column, send a Letter to the Editor to [email protected].
