When I Think of Research...

Before taking this research competency course I thought that research was this big thing looming somewhere down the road in front of me that required too much work to enjoy.  Now, at the conclusion of the course, I think I can say perhaps it can be enjoyable if you choose a topic that is interesting to you.  I would still say that research requires a lot of work, but if you pace yourself, have a plan, and stick to that plan then research can go smoothly.  I found that research is much more in-depth than I originally thought it was.  I did not realize that there were different kinds of research and so many methods of doing things.  It was a challenge to learn all the different aspects and methods but in the long run I know that it will be useful and that it was worth it.  I also learned that it is very important to have a plan before beginning and that it's okay if that plan needs to be modified as a study continues.