Should I ask current students what a normal day in their laboratory looks like?
Yes. Asking current students about a typical day in their laboratory can help you understand how time is divided among classes, experiments, research, attendance, and interactions with faculty and other students. However, do not judge the laboratory from one person’s experience alone: ask several students where possible and compare what you hear with official university information.
Key points
- Ask specific questions about schedules, attendance, supervision, and the laboratory atmosphere.
- If possible, speak with students in different years or with different research topics.
- Use students’ comments as a supplement to, not a replacement for, official information about the laboratory and program.
Things to check
- A laboratory routine can vary by faculty, research field, academic year, and time of year.
- One student’s personal experience may not represent all students.