Arguably, this is the best part of an epic summer research experience.

After a summer of long hours dedicated to making a contribution to science and overcoming challenges in the lab, you’ll finally feel like a real scientist.

By testing your resiliency, self-motivation, and self-discipline over and over again, you’ll realize that the summer experience has made you a more confident researcher and more connected to your project. Then, when a new person joins the lab in the fall, you’ll still remember what it was like to be new and nervous but you’ll also be confident enough to say, “Don’t worry, I’ll help you find what you need.”

And it will feel great, because you’ll know that you’ve got this, and you’ll realize just how far you’ve come.

Want more tips for thriving during your summer research experience? Check out 10 Things to Expect From Your Summer Undergrad Research Experience and On why it’s so important to 5 Survival Tips for Summer Research