Researching with Professors

[deleted-364982]

Hey Science Buddies!
I'm currently a budding sophomore who has an idea for an ophthalmology project, and I have a solution that could stop the progression of Myopia. I really need a laboratory to execute an experiment, and also a mentor to guide me through the chemistry and hard aspects of the project.
But I've read on this website and others that when a student works with the mentor in their mutual endeavors, they are expected to present the research that the mentor is already, currently doing, (and to simply aid the professor in whatever he/she is working on). Of course, I may have misinterpreted the information, but it would be a great help to me if someone could tell me if I can, and if so, HOW I can [ask a professor to help me test out and execute an experiment I came up with myself]; because I have a research outline and everything.
Thank You for your time!

[deleted-2131]

Hi Nahmed,

In some cases high school students approach a mentor and work on a project directly related to something that the mentor is already doing. In other cases, mentors help students with their own projects. It depends on the details of the mentor-student relationship.

Having a research outline already made is a strength, in my opinion, because it shows you are serious about what you are doing and have a plan. You will want to make it clear, however, that you are open to feedback on and changes to the plan.

Read through my responses to another student with a similar question. In the thread, I make some specific suggestions for how to reach out to mentors.
viewtopic.php?f=41&t=16107&p=56759#p56759

After reading through those responses, post back with any questions that you have.

Good luck!