Now that a few weeks have passed since the start of the semester, there\u2019s no denying it: it\u2019s time to get to work. For students interested in learning about research and creative engagement, the discovery process can feel daunting. For students engaging in independent research and creative projects, those deadlines that once loomed far in the distance are suddenly a bit too close for comfort.<\/p>\n
Rather than feeling stressed by the problem-solving, discovery and exploration that comes with research projects, embrace it! Part of the research experience is learning to navigate the various challenges, slip-ups and unexpected roadblocks that come your way. You\u2019ll be that more prepared to handle whatever post-grad life throws at you after having executed your own project start to finish. And campus offices like The SOURCE<\/a> are here to support you.<\/p>\n But of course, that thought doesn\u2019t do much for you now while you\u2019re in the middle of trying to figure out a thousand things at once. Hopefully, these do\u2019s and don\u2019ts will help with whatever stage of your project you\u2019re in.<\/p>\n DO:<\/strong> Draw on the various talents and interests you have outside of your field of study.<\/p>\n Independent projects are your chance to think outside the box and break away from the day-to-day of being a student in your major. Are you an engineering student with a passion for circus activities, or an English student with a knack for yodeling? Give your brain a break from doing the same types of academic exercises and make your project into something you\u2019ll WANT to work on by indulging that side of yourself that\u2019s itching to explore a different passion.<\/p>\n DON\u2019T:<\/strong> Try to combine every piece of knowledge you\u2019ve ever picked up into one project.<\/p>\n As liberating as it can be to create your own guidelines, don\u2019t take on more than you can handle. At the end of the day, you have to be able to wrap your head around your work to help the project realize its potential. Make life easier for yourself, and the people that are part of your project\u2019s intended audience, by doing your best to keep it simple.<\/p>\n