Independent Study

How can I find an internship opportunity?

Visit the Handshake website and join millions of students on the best place to get hired.

I am a graduate student, can I enroll into Independent Study/Research courses?

No, unfortunately independent study/research classes are only open to undergraduate students that either major or minor in psychology.

Do I have to be a psychology major in order to be placed into a laboratory?

PSYCH majors and minors have priority access to PSYCH research labs. However, entry into labs and research opportunities are at the discretion of and subject to approval by the lab's Principal Investigator (PI). 

How long should I be prepared to spend on this internship?

The time will be determined by your mentor and you.

How many hours are required per semester?

A minimum of 100 hours are required for independent study/research classes. In short, you are expected to work 6 to 10 hours per week.

What is required if taking this class as an independent study course (i.e. for credit)?

At the end of the project, you will be expected to write a paper. The length and the topic should be discussed with your mentor. Also, you are required to sign a contract in which you and your mentor promise to fulfill the course expectations. You may also be required to attend to laboratory meetings.

If I want to work in a laboratory, do I HAVE to take this as an independent study course (i.e. for credit)?

No, independent study/research classes provide the student the opportunity to earn 3 credits for psychology-related work they conduct within the semester (spring and fall only). However, you are not required to enroll in an independent study to gain experience in either fieldwork or research. 

Can I do research work outside of Hunter?

Yes. However, if you want to earn credit, you must find a Hunter faculty mentor. 

Which independent study should I sign up for?

• PSYCH 201 - Independent Study requires a declared major or minor and successful completion of 6 credits in psychology classes. 
• PSYCH 395 - Independent Research requires a declared major and successful completion of PSYCH 250 - Experimental Psychology. 
• PSYCH 396 / PSYCH 398 - Departmental Honors require a declared major and successful completion of PSYCH 250 - Experimental Psychology. 

Who are the mentors from the psychology department?

Each member of our faculty is a mentor. See our Faculty and Staff page for the list of our mentors.

What is the correct way of approaching a mentor?

1. Before you apply for a specific lab:
   • Know what is the mentor's field of interest and what kind of research he/she does.
   • Read their full faculty biography and the articles they have written. Mentors want to know if you understand and are interested in learning what he/she does.
2. During the interview:
   • Make a great impression on your potential mentor: Show that you have aptitude and explain why you are interested in working in his/her laboratory.
3. Keep in mind:
   • Do not expect the mentors to do the work for you, they will help you, but it is your responsibility to work and learn, and get the experience you need from them.
   • Remember that your mentor will be writing recommendation letters for you.
   • Your mentor is the person that is going to guide you on your laboratory work, therefore you need to be respectful and refer to them accordingly.
4. When addressing your mentors:
   • Address them by their appropriate title. (Most likely Professor or Dr. )
   • Be very formal when writing e-mails or letters.
   • Check spelling and grammar several times before you send him/her e-mails.
   • Be precise and write no more than what is necessary.

Remember: Mentors have full schedules and may not get back to you immediately. You may want to write a follow up e-mail if too much time has passed.

How can I find a mentor's research articles?

You can find them on any of these sites:

• Psychology Department' Mentors
• Hunter Library
• Pub med

What is a resume?

A resume is a one or two page summary of your education, skills, accomplishments and work experience. (Career Development Services definition).

What is a Curriculum Vitae (CV)?

A Curriculum Vitae is a brief account of a person's education, qualifications, and previous occupations. It is a Latin phrase meaning 'course of life.' (Oxford dictionary definition).

What are the differences between a resume and a CV?

The differences between a resume and a Curriculum Vitae are:

• A resume is a brief summary of your skills and experience, while a CV is a more detailed and extended summary of your academic and work background.
• A resume is mainly used for job applications, while a CV is mostly used for academic purposes.
• A CV is more specific to educational background, and is the most proper way to present yourself when applying for educational or research positions.

Do I need a resume or a CV when applying for Lab Placement?

You definitely need a CV.

 I don't know how to make a CV or a resume for my application, where can I get help?

Career Development Services has helpful resources that can guide you step by step during your resume making process. See their Resume and Cover Letter Guide.

After I have made my CV, can someone review it for me?

Yes, the Career Center office has counselors that can review your CV. They are located in Hunter's East Building, Room 805. View their office hours here.