J. Christopher Edgar, PhD

"Throughout the program, I was able to take part in multiple areas of research. I shadowed our research assistants during participant visits where I saw how exactly we collect data, as well as how to interact with participants during their time participating in the study."

Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Student (Summer 2021)

"In my 2021 Summer REU internship at CIRP, I gained valuable experience and developed useful skills in the field of research. To start, I was able to learn up close and see the overall process of how a study is run. I learned what goes into it, who does what, and how important good communication and teamwork is to the success of a team’s research. I was also able to build on my ability to cooperate and communicate well with others, while developing good professional relationships.

I also strengthened my skills in working independently. I was able to develop an understanding that research never really stops, as I took time where there wasn’t a specific task that needed to be done and put it towards my own independent research, which allowed me to gain a broader sense of knowledge of the field of research I worked in.

Throughout the program, I was able to take part in multiple areas of research. I was able to shadow our research assistants during participant visits where I saw how exactly we collect data, as well as how to interact with participants during their time participating in the study. I also was able to develop skills in analyzing the data, learning how to use BESA software (which was challenging at first).

Additionally, I developed skills presenting research, summarizing research for two presentations (one for members of the research team and the other for the REU program). This allowed me to gain more confidence speaking to others about research, which is definitely not my strong suit. Lastly, I was able to improve on my previous skills using software such as Microsoft Excel and REDCap. Due to my familiarity in REDCap, I was able to work at an increased pace, which in turn reduced the need for additional work from others.

Overall, I am proud of and grateful for my time as an REU intern, and I can’t wait to see how I can use this experience in future aspects of my career. I am thankful to everyone who played a role in getting me this opportunity, as well as those who helped me throughout this experience."