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Hi Class of 2022! I know that Research Practicum may seem scary but it's really about how you approach it. Procrastination is some thing that is mentioned a lot when it comes to struggling with schoolwork but it is really something that you want to avoid during RP. The longer you wait on trying to do an assignment, the less motivated you will be. Another tip that I'm sure you'll read a lot on this page is to try your best to choose a topic that you're at least remotely interested. I am not interested in biology or engineering at all but I do like to deal with numbers and data so my project was a statistical analysis where I literally interpreted pre-made and public data. All in all, I would just say that if there's anything that you should take from this process is learning how you work with a big "self-guided" project. Oh and don't think that you won't have help because there's always someone in your corner.

- Kayla Moore

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Hey up and coming seniors! If you choose to take RP, don't sweat it! It's a class meant to prepare you! This class will show you where you need help in writing papers and make you get used to what a college class could be like. Personally, when seniors told me about this class, I paid no mind because I always say to myself that I need to personally experience it and it worked out well! Just know you are in hands of an amazing educator and she will teach you everything you need to know to get a hundred. Just make sure you make time for yourself before any deadline. A good advice is to do your long papers, a week before it's due so you will just have to turn it in the day it's due. Good luck!

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Try. Without exaggeration  RP is what you make it. If you have a good work ethic the output and perception of RP can be completely different from those who don’t. I have friends who are in RP who are on both sides of the spectrum. So understand you can choose how you want to be here, it’s no cake walk but there’s still help so use your recourses.

- Jayden Ervin

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Wassup Class of 2022! So I'm here to tell y'all to relax! RP isn't as scary some people have made it seem. I'm going give you a quick survival guide for RP:
1. DON'T PROCRASTINATE! You are given a generous amount of time to complete each part of the paper and your project. Manage your time wisely and the process will be WAY less stressful.

2. Pick a topic that interest you! I  promise you it will be easier to get the work done, if you are interested in what you are researching. It will seem like less of a chore.

3. Lose the pride and ask for help when you need it. Our RP teachers are there to help us succeed. Talk to them.

4. PAY ATTENTION TO THE RUBRICS! When you are writing each part of your paper make sure to follow the rubric. It will be way easier to meet the page requirement if you do. Also you will get a bad grade if you don't lol.

I believe in you guys so go and be great.
- Emmanuel J. Barnes

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Hey Class of 2022! A pro of RP is being able to connect with professionals in a field that you are interested in. I would advise that you do not procrastinate because they work will pile up on you if you do. Don’t stress! Ask as many questions as you need to. It will all be over before you know it.

- Amaya Morton

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One of the pros I've noticed after taking RP is that it helps you get used to a heavier workload. In the beginning it can be hard and stressful, but as you progress through the class you can get used to it to the point that when a new assignment is posted you don't even get the least bit stressed. (The rubrics and exemplars definitely help)
-A. Byrd

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Many of you are probably nervous about RP. You've probably heard countless horror stories about RP, but please do not let that deter you from taking one of the best classes at Oxon Hill.
RP is one of the most beneficial classes you can take as a Science and Technology student. It introduces you to the workload you will experience in college.

Here is some advice I can give to you as someone who loves science but does not like writing:

1.The rubric is your best friend. Whenever you are working on your paper, please make sure the rubric and exemplars are right next to you.
2. Pick a project that you are interested it. It will be much more difficult for you to write about something you are not passionate.
3. Don't Procrastinate/Start Early. There were many times where I procrastinated and I missed points due to me rushing. Start early so you can get all of the points on the rubric,

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us. We are happy to help. Overall, I believe that I am more prepared for college because of RP.
-Aaliyah Beckles

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RP was definitely an experience. Wile there are several drawbacks, there are some benefits.
1. It exposes you to the research you would be doing in college.
2. While the workload can be daunting, it really isn't that difficult if you manage your time.
3. It makes you feel very accomplished as you look through all the work you have done.

As for advice, just pick a topic you are genuinely interested in and ask for help when you need it!

- Abigail M.

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RP isn’t as intimidating as it may seem. Persue a topic your actually interested in and the rest will come with ease. High school isn’t the most pivital moment of your life, but it’s a period of self discovery and creating new conncetions in your life, RP could be a the step to one of those connections.

-D. Solomon

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Howdy y'all!

Congratulations on making it this far, I know for some, it certainly wasn't easy. Over the course of RP, I've changed my topic multiple times, had a few late assignments, and definitely procrastinated on my work - so please internalize my advice, lol. I learned from experience. My two biggest pieces of advice are as follows:

1. START EARLY: Not saying you gotta commit your entire summer to preparing for RP, but definitely take a few weeks to determine what research topic you'd be interested in - or at the very least, determine the subject matter/area. King-Davis was extremely helpful with helping me narrow down my topic and working out the details.

2. COLLABORATE AND GRADUATE: For the Class of 2021, about 60 of us had a GroupMe where we updated each other on the status of RP,  including assignment deadlines, notes from KD, and resources. You don't have to go at it alone, so don't unless you really want to.

- Ninah Jackson

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Hey guys! First of all, I want to congratulate you on choosing the superior path! >:) Research is in every part of our lives, and now you're going to start your journey as a super awesome researcher.

So... some advice:
1. DON'T STRESS ABOUT YOUR TOPIC OVER THE SUMMER! I'm so serious. You have to do a few summer assignments for RP, but the overall task of picking a topic will be saved for the beginning of class. Just keep in mind what your interests are (for example: my interests are in psychology and neuroscience), and enjoy your summer!

2. Choose a topic that you would consider continuing after high school! I'm not saying that you SHOULD continue the project after high school... but if you could imagine yourself continuing the research after your RP project, you're more likely to genuinely love it all year-long! Some (a lot) of seniors are going to be burnt out as the end of the year approaches... so don't let your RP project be a huge contributing factor to that burnout! Choose something you genuinely like! That being said, don't just reject a project just because it looks hard! Look at your capabilities, create a pro-and-con list, and make an educated choice about your topic! Don't be lazy, lazy! You can be plenty lazy the summer after high school :)

3. GET THE BAND BACK TOGETHER. Well, not a literal band, but an awesome group of people! Some people to help edit your assignments, some people to help motivate you, some people to help with de-stressing. The more people, the better! This can be teachers, staff members, parents, or some people that are part of your (possible) internship! Build that support team!

These are just a few pieces of advice, but if you ever want to talk to a senior one-to-one about RP, ask Ms. KD to put you in contact with them! A lot of us are ready to talk. including me! :)

Now it's time for me to graduate! Hopefully I don't trip.
~Ashley W.

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Hi class of 2022 Congratulations on making it this far, it's your turn to graduate!!!! RP isn't as hard as you think it is but here's some things to keep in mind.

1. Try not to procrastinate. Time management is key and it feels alot better to finish a chapter early rather than late.
2. If you can, apply for an internship. It's a great way to talk to a professional and get advice on your project, as well as be more exposed to the kind of research/work scientists do.
3. Don´t be afraid to ask questions. Mrs. King-Davis, Mrs. Crocheron, and your mentor probably have the answers to your questions if you are confused.
4. Pick a topic you´re interested in. You don´t have to something you don´t like. Researching something you´re interested in will make RP go faster and feel easier.
5. Double check your paper. APA formatting takes a little while to get used to, but once you´ve got it it´ll be second nature.
6. Lastly, relax and have fun. This is your final year so remember to take time for yourself and really enjoy it.

Good Luck, you´ll be great!!!

- Mariella Rosales

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Hey Juniors! I'm here to tell you all you need to know about RP.

RP may seem intimidating at first because its a "year-long" research project, but once you start familiarizing yourself with what you want to do, you start to get the hang of things. Plus, Mrs. King-Davis and Mr. Coloma are amazing advisors that are here to help you every step of the way, so that really makes getting through this course much easier.

From experience, I can tell you that there are so many benefits to taking RP. Firstly, I think the biggest thing is that it helps you with time management and the workload that you would experience in college. Secondly, taking RP would help you figure out what you're interested in as far as research and studying different topics. This course is what actually made me want to major in Biology when I go to college. I was reluctant to take RP at first, but now that I'm at the end of it, I'm so glad that I was able to have the opportunity to experience what it had to offer.

I think that to help you along the way, you should think and research what topics you would be interested in to study during RP. It really helps in the beginning stages of RP when you already know what you wanna do. Also, MAKE SURE THAT YOU DO NOT PROCRASTINATE!! I know procrastination really held me back (mostly because I would start my chapters the day before it was due :/ ) so make sure you get to it!

Other than that, I think you guys will do great in RP. Mr. Coloma, Ms. KD, Ms. Crocheron, and Dr. Woodruff will take care of y'all.

- Kristian S.

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Virtual RP was different from previous years. I have learned a few things and I wanted to share them with you.
1). Choose a project that interest you. Like many people have said this is a year long project choosing a project that like will make the project easier and feel less like work. Choosing a project you do not like will become tiresome. Even if you feel like it's not related to science your RP advisors will help you create a project around that topic.
2). Use your resources. Reach out to your mentors, advisors, even peers, so many things can come out of asking for advice. If you have questions, concerns, or anything don't be afraid to ask there are people here to help.
3). Time management is so important. 11:59pm waits for NO ONE. It is easy to get loose track or put off assignments dates but it really makes a difference if you plan your work out over a course of time because doing assignments last minute causes stress, frustration, and little mistakes that could have been avoided.
3). Don't stress over project results, this is a research study, we cannot plan the outcomes, it is all apart of the process.
4). Finally, you will be okay! Do not worry or stress yourself out about the what ifs and RP as a whole. The project is broken down for you to take everything one step at a time.

Lauryn Awkward

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Research Practicum is honestly a great experience that prepares you for college and the real world. The summer before starting RP I was a bit nervous because I believed it would be extremely difficult but once I got in the class I became familiar with the routine and assignments in the class. A piece of advice that I would give to the upcoming seniors is to not procrastinate and make sure to manage your time appropriately. As well as ask questions if you do not understand something. RP is a long process but at the end of the day it is worth it.
-Samantha Thompson

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RP is a long process with a lot of research. Seniors before me told me RP was basically a nightmare and to not take it because it was super hard, which was the complete opposite.  I would suggest picking a good topic that you know can be researched and seems easy for you and not everyone else.  Procrastination is a big part too. DO NOT procrastinate because the timelines and dates can sneak up on you. Ask plenty of questions even if it seems like you know it, ask anyway just to make sure. At the end of RP it's a huge relief knowing what you've accomplished so just keep going.
- N'dia Wheeler

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Make sure to choose your idea and make sure you know what you're researching, and don't procrastinate on any assignments given. Finishing rp is worth it and it feels like a huge relief when you do finish, it can be stressful though so play your cards carefully on what you want to do. Also don't forget to ask for help.

-Leonard M.

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RP definitely isn't as hard at people say, its really all about time management. So my advice to you is to stop the procrastinating and just get the work done. I also think it would be a good idea to have your project idea along with everything your going to need before coming to research practicum cause its a lot of stress in the beginning of RP. And ask questions your teacher will help you.
- Saniyha A.

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The best advice I can give you is to take a deep breath and go at it one day at a time. Your wellbeing is more important than any grade you receive, so if you aren’t doing as well as you hoped don’t beat yourself up over it. Your grades are not a reflection of your worth, so do your best but don’t forget to take care of yourself. And if you need help, ask for it.

- Isabella B.

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Get your project idea early and be on the look out for potential mentors.
Stay on top of all your work and be ahead of everything
-Darius Logan Jr

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1. Do not procrastinate. A big part of RP is getting your work done on time, so make sure to plan ahead.
2. Everything will not go your way. You could plan for your project to go one way, but then a certain problem will cause you to take another route. That's another reason why you should plan accordingly.
3. Don't give up. Although RP is hard work, you have your mentors and teachers there to help you. And in the end, it will all be worth it.
-Constant Sanders

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Research Practicum is a long, thrilling, and hard process. The seniors before me, told me, more like warned me to not take RP, and I didn't listen to their warnings. I wanted to see for myself 'what was so bad about RP?' and I saw firsthand the amount of stress and responsibility that comes with this path. So, some tips that could possibly help you in your journey:
1. Pick a topic that interest you. Don't pick the project that will look cool, but you have no idea what to do or where to start. Choose a topic that fits your best interest and possibly your career choice.
2. Although it's not necessary, find a mentor or sign up for an internship. Having an internship is like having a team behind you through your journey. My mentors and I met with each other every week to discuss my project and they offered me advice on my project. You don't need an internship or mentor, but it's nice to have one.
3. Ask questions. Your RP teacher is there to help you and guide you through your project. If you don't know what the next step is, ask for help. They will surely take the time to aid you and find the next step with you.
4. DO YOUR WORK. I can't stress this enough. Don't wait till the last minute. Although, you are provided deadlines, those dates will be there faster than you it. Don't wait till the last minute to do your annotations, or chapter, or any assignment that is given. Stay on top of your work because you will thank yourself in the end.
5. Don't stress yourself out. If you feel the mentalbreakdown coming, step back from the computer and take a break. I'm not going to lie, I had a couple and I took a few days to relax my mind and get away from the stress. Your mental health is important, so don't overwork yourself.

RP is a long and drawn out process, but it's not going to kill you. You can get through this and you will get through this. RP is a lifechanging and promising path, because it will benefit you in the end. Everyone believes in you, but don't forget to believe in yourself.
- Jinnah Parrish

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1) Use your time wisely, I know there might be some points where you want to procrastinate and finish talking to your friends or watching that movie, but that is a recipe for failure. Before you know it that chapter or progress check will be due, but more importantly your senior year will be over. So make the most of the time you have, and get the work done first.

2) Choose a topic that's easy for you. Don't select a topic that's extremely challenging or that you have 0 interest in just because you feel you have to do something just as impressive as one of your peers. You'll just overwork yourself and everything will fall apart. One of the first things you'll be told is select a project that you like and is doable, the last thing you need is to be bummed out because you aren't interested or don't understand while working on the biggest and most important project of your school career.

3) Apply for an internship, and if you don't get an internship, at least talk with friends you have who are in college and took RP for a few extra tips. They won't be able to help you physically complete your project like a mentor can, but both can be helpful when you hit a roadblock mentally and don't know what to do.

4) Make sure mother nature is on your side. This is especially important if your project involves plants, insects, or simply being outside. The elements can have drastic effects on your research, especially since most of it will be done during the fall and winter, so think about what you have to do with your projects and whether or not the cold will negatively effect you.

I can go on and on giving you tips on how to best complete your research, but overall the deciding factor is YOU. You may hear from some of your old senior friends that RP was the hardest class ever, and while it may seem like that during your research, afterwards you'll see it was really easier than you thought, and it was mainly just the stress. If you're determined, enjoy the topic you selected, and don't procrastinate you will be fine! There will be days where you're up all night to get something done, but don't panic, as long as you stay calm and collected and don't give in to the stress you should have nothing to worry about.

-Nathaniel Waters

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RP seems like a really daunting task, but it really isn't. Here's some advice from me now that I've completed it:
1. USE YOUR EXEMPLARS AND RUBRIC! They're provided to help you, and even if you think you can grasp it on your own they'll help fill in any gaps or misunderstandings.
2. Don't procrastinate. I know I did and it's incredibly stressful to try and write a whole chapter the day it was due when you had several days/weeks to prepare for it.
3. Get your materials on time. Everything passes super quickly and you don't want a late start on your testing if its something you can control. If its out of your control, make sure to reach out to the S&T department for help.
4. Pick a project you like and understand. Obviously everyone wants a stand out project, but don't pick something that's way over you head. Of course you should challenge yourself, but don't end up miserable because you have to work on something you're not remotely passionate about.

Those are my main points, but overall just take your time, don't psych yourself out, and have fun. RP takes a lot of hard work but it's very doable and will help you in the long run!
- Micah Tue

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I actually really enjoyed this class. A lot of people before i had entered my senior year said it was super hard but in reality it’s not. The teachers will work with you to make sure it’s a easy experience. If you need help they are there to help you. Rubrics and examples are given ahead of time so that’s you know what your doing. Plus, an internship looks great in a college application.
-Holland H

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You probably heard that RP is the worst thing in the world but it’s actually not that bad if you have okay work habits! To prevent you guys from making the same mistakes that I did, I’m gonna give you guys some advice
1. Think of some ideas you’re interested in researching now, one of the hardest parts of RP is finding a topic that’s applicable to everyday life AND finding something that you’re interested in. It’s the little things that make you realize the best thing to do, like asking questions about how minor/major inconveniences can be solved.
2. Try to have an attainable list of procedures. When I began RP the topic I had was very different from the one I ended with! If your research is on something that is unattainable, like trying to experiment with rats with no supervisor, it’s best to either change the project or work around those limitations!
3. PLEASE don’t procrastinate, you’ll think you can write this paper in a good 4 hours but you’re absolutely wrong! And if you do finish it, it’s probably filled with mistakes that’ll cost you a lot of point, especially when it comes to the layout of the paper!

With that, I think you guys will do great! Good luck!
- Khadija K. 🦑

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RP was an amazing experience. But here are a few things you should keep in mind to make the process much smoother:
- Since you will be doing thorough research on your topic, make sure it is something you will enjoy.
- Take into consideration the environment you have when picking a project.
-  Make sure you document your entire process (getting materials, working on your project, changes you make, etc.)
- Take advantage of ALL of your resources (teachers, examples given, peers, mentors from internships, etc.)
- Don't procrastinate! RP is broken down into a lot of steps, which makes it easier to complete. However, it is up to you to keep up with each step, utilize your time, and to get the work done as soon as possible.

And, of course, make sure to have fun! RP was one of my favorite experiences of my senior year and I hope you all take advantage of the opportunity. Good luck, you got this!

- Hewan Shimelis

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Make sure you stay on top of work! It may be easy to procrastinate now but doing your work early gives you less stress in the long run. If you need help or don’t understand an assignment or chapter, don’t be afraid to ask Ms. King- Davis or your mentor questions, they are there to help you! My last piece of advice is to pick a topic or issue that truly interests you because it is way easier to motivate yourself to push forward with your research. Have fun and do a great job!
-Kennedy Gourdine

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I am going to be completely straight with you. RP is hard, but it is a learning experience. There are gonna be nights when you stay up late to finish one of those RP chapter and you're gonna wish you did not take this class. There are gonna be days where you wait to the last minute and that's okay. RP prepares you for writing research papers, give you internship opportunities, and can make you learn how to stop bad learning habits before college. I learned that I need to start the work early or I'm not gonna do the assignment. It's a truly a stressful experience that prepares you for college so just stay positive and don't give up. RP does get better towards the end. You will feel so accomplished when it's over.
-Jazmyn Farmer

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1. I know procrastination loves company, but taking on an RP assignment at the last minute will feel overwhelming. Execute your assignments portion by portion, day by day, all the way up to the due date and it won't seem as extreme.

2. Ensure that your project is doable (especially if you're performing it at home).

3. If you have questions, ask them. It's better than finding out after the fact.

4. Choose a topic that interests you. If you don't the entirety of RP will be a drag.

5. Try your best to find an internship that links with your project (or vice versa).

You're going to do great! You've come this far, it's your senior year, have fun with it.

- Crisla Glasper

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Congratulations on making it this far! My RP experience was so rewarding and if I had the chance to do it again, I would. I won't sugarcoat too much for you; RP is a challenging class. The research you do and the papers you write are very advanced and it can be difficult to stay on top of and overwhelming at first but, do not fret! Mr. Coloma and Mrs. King-Davis will be with you every step of the way with examples, detailed rubrics, and open class discussions about your questions and concerns. Getting a mentor also is a big help when it comes to choosing a project, working out the details of that project, keeping you on track, and receiving materials for your project that you cannot get yourself. In RP, there will always be someone around to help you so, never ever hesitate to ask for it! This class is made to challenge you so, always try your best; you may do better that you had imagined. Finally, always try to get things done as early as possible and never give up on yourself! I wish you the best of luck :) - Cydney S.

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Overall my research practicum experience was pretty good and definitely a learning experience. I think that it is a good start to learning about research and how to properly research, so I think it is a great option. Remember to stay on top of all your work, give 100% effort and take in the experience!
- Samara K.

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My advice is to  try your best to be proactive when it comes to conducting your project. It may become overwhelming when it comes to writing the papers and doing annotations. However it’s going to be incredibly rewarding at the finish line. Good luck!
Rain Woodard

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1. Make sure to get your materials as soon as possible and don't hold off on it. This is so that you will have plenty of time to do your actually experiment so you won't waste time.
2. Make sure to chose a topic that you are 100% sure that you are actually interested in and that its something that you and a project that you are able to do at home, because the chances of you returning to school next year aren't that high
3. Make sure to ask question to your RP teacher (whether their Ms. King-Davis or Mr. Coloma. They are great teachers who will answer your questions and help you along the way.
- Emmanuel Williams