Although I feel I have a basic understanding of a literature review, I am struggling to find a topic and general outline. Some of the videos I've watched suggest to start by finding a research article with an interesting topic, then look through that topic for key words or ideas that the research is built upon. The attached video talks about the "research cycle", which is :
pick a topic
read research on that topic.
tweak the topic of your paper as needed.
In step 2, if there is not enough material for research, you may need to tweak your topic. Also, during research, you may find a more interesting topic than the original. One other thing mentioned was, if you are stuck, ask for help. Resources such as Librarians may be able to offer guidance and provide a nudge if you are stuck picking a topic. I scheduled a virtual appointment with a PC librarian earlier this week, and he was extremely helpful, showing me different places to find ideas, and going over proper citation. He said there is also a 24 hour/day "ask a librarian" help feature on their website if you are struggling late at night. You can schedule an online appointment with a librarian, or use the 24/7 service via the canvas library link. The library database also has a section on argument/debate (hot topics) that may help provide review ideas, by writing about what data/methods those arguments are based on.
Going forward I plan to work more on my physical health. It's about time to go back to the gym, and to get healthier sleep. My career goals haven't changed much. I still want to become a researcher, but am torn between microbes and genetics. Maybe I'll do both. If I could offer any advice to fellow students it would be simply, "Don't give up." Even if you have to slow down, keep moving forward. There have been times in my life where I thought, "If I hadn't quit _______, just because of ________, I would be ________ by now." Don't let dreams and excuses fill in these blanks. Instead, write your story as, "Even though I was struggling with________, I found a way ...
The word of the day is disheartened. I have attempted 3 different projects so far, and every one has been unsuccessful for one reason or another. I won't say "failure" because I did learn some things in the process. The hours I spent on research, however, have not brought me closer to my goal. Not having even a successful outline at this point makes me feel unacceptably behind, and I am very uncomfortable about it. Attempt number 4. Lit Review: "What role, if any, does epigenetics play in _________ addiction." After speaking with Josh and Amanda, this seems like an interesting topic that will hopefully be narrow enough, and yet have some research out there. We had discussed sugar addiction, but so far I have not found much research on it. I may have to swap to a different addiction, like cocaine or alcohol. Next week, if things go to plan, I will discuss what epigenetics is. It is a fascinating topic that I hope you all will find as interesting as I do.
As I was putting together my presentation, it brought great joy to go over everything I experienced this semester. I had health issues that started just before the semester and are still ongoing. I've been in a great deal of pain these last few months and have had difficulty focusing on anything. I kept telling myself "If you were smart you would take the semester off to heal." But, I really did not want to miss out on anything. It was really very hard, but I am glad I stuck it out. In the end it was worth it. I met such amazing people and learned some wonderful things. I have a surgery coming up over the break, and with some of the classes going back to in-person in the fall, I think things will get even better. There is so much I want to share during my presentation that I fear it will be too long. I may have to talk very fast, or cut out a few things, but I feel it is all worth sharing. I am looking forward mostly to hearing the other presentations to find out what f...
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