Planning your courses while doing research can feel like a juggling act—one that involves not just your academic requirements but also your research commitments and, of course, your own well-being. At a place like Princeton, where opportunities in labs and research projects abound, learning how to navigate and integrate everything into your schedule can make a huge difference.
To start, think about how you generally prefer to structure your day. Do you like to stack your classes back-to-back so that you finish early and have the rest of the day free for research or personal time? Or would you rather have gaps between classes to decompress or get some work done? Maybe having Fridays off is your dream, so you’re willing to load your other weekdays a bit heavier. Understanding your ideal daily rhythm is key because it sets the foundation for what you can handle without burning out.
Then, there’s the reality of lab schedules. If you’re already in a research lab, planning your courses around lab commitments can make things much smoother. Ask yourself: When does your lab meet for group discussions or updates? Is there a regular time your mentor is free to go over your progress or troubleshoot problems? How often are you expected to be physically present in the lab each week, and do they have designated open hours you need to work around? These details will shape when you should—or shouldn’t—schedule classes, especially if your research requires a certain number of hours per week.
Another point to consider is whether there are research-based courses you can take to make the integration even easier. For example, if you’re an AB student in neuroscience, NEU250 is a fantastic option. This course lets you engage in research while also getting course credit, which can be especially helpful if you want to maintain a five-course semester. Courses like NEU250 are designed to be “PDF only,” which means the workload is usually manageable, and you can focus on research you’re passionate about without the pressure of a traditional grading system. This setup also allows you to learn the intricacies of research in a more structured way.
NEU250, in particular, is only available to sophomores, so planning ahead is crucial. Sometimes, research courses require approval from a program director or need to be taken year-long, so be sure to look into the details early on. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the course instructor or other students who have taken it to understand what you’re getting into. And if you’re in chemistry, molecular biology, or any other lab-based major, look into similar options available in your department that let you dive deeper into research while earning credits.
But while all this planning is essential, remember to also plan for yourself. You need time to eat, sleep, and actually enjoy the process of learning and conducting research. Scheduling breaks and giving yourself room to breathe is as important as any academic or research commitment. After all, the goal isn’t just to complete a schedule that works on paper but one that leaves you feeling fulfilled and excited to learn. Balancing everything is tricky, but with some thoughtful planning, you can make space for both your academic and research passions—and appreciate the ride along the way.
— Angel Toasakul, Natural Sciences Correspondent
