bunsenburn

I'm doing an master of research across the pond, a heavily research focused degree so yeah definitely get to do research. Personally I am enjoying it despite it not really helping (the outcome of) my applications this year. I think it's worth it as a step towards PhD although sometimes I think if I had taken a technician position, 1. I would be payed instead of paying and 2. get to develop more solid technical skills (perhaps also a better chance to get name on a paper? Depending on the lab).

I was in the same boat last year (got rejected by all 8 I applied to) and ended up applying to some of the masters programs that had later deadlines. Don't think I was able to strengthen my CV enough though seeing that I'm getting all rejects again this year... Can't speak for post-baccs but in my opinion lab technician/industry positions would really help building your technical repertoire (I've learnt that lab technicians aren't always openly advertised either, so to second heistotron, worth asking around your school/home department labs).