From Lecture Halls to Labs: How I Found My Passion in Research

When I started my master’s program, research wasn’t on my radar. Like many students, I was laser-focused on classes, assignments, and figuring out the maze of campus life. But somewhere between the late-night coding sessions and group projects, I realized I wanted to do more than just learn, I wanted to create.

It started with a question during one of my lectures: “What if technology could make healthcare more accessible?” It wasn’t just a passing thought. I couldn’t shake the idea of using machine learning to address some of the biggest challenges in healthcare. But how would I, a student with no prior research experience, even get started?

I decided to start small: by talking to professors. I sent out emails, knocked on office doors, and joined department seminars. One professor I spoke with shared something that stuck with me: “Research isn’t about knowing all the answers, it’s about being curious enough to find them.” That conversation lit a spark. I realized that even if I didn’t have all the experience, I had curiosity, determination, and a passion for solving real-world problems.

Eventually, I connected with a professor who shared my enthusiasm for using machine learning in healthcare. Together, we brainstormed ways to address some of the inefficiencies in diagnosis and patient care. The idea of applying technology to help improve lives felt incredibly meaningful.

Stepping into the lab for the first time was surreal. It wasn’t just about the data or algorithms; it was about the possibility of making a difference. Each day brought new challenges—debugging code, refining models, and navigating the inevitable setbacks that come with research. But every step forward, no matter how small, felt like progress toward something bigger. 

Looking back, I’m glad I didn’t let the initial rejections deter me. Research isn’t just about solving problems; it’s about perseverance, collaboration, and believing in the impact your work can have. If you’re a student wondering whether research is for you, my advice is simple: stay curious, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to reach out. You never know where one conversation might lead.

For me, it led to a journey I never imagined—one where I’m not just learning but actively contributing to solutions that could shape the future of healthcare. And that, I’ve learned, is the true power of research.