Lab Choice— What if I Make a Mistake?

In the choice of your rotation

If you would never consider joining the lab and you are not getting anything out of the rotation, then you should begin setting up your next rotation, regardless of whether the quarter is over. There is no required minimum length for a lab rotation.

If you need advice about how to best approach your rotation advisor, consult your Home Program's first-year advisor or graduate-student advisor.

In the choice of your thesis lab

If you feel that the only way for you to be successful in graduate school is to change labs, or if you feel that you would truly flourish elsewhere, then apply yourself to figuring out what you need in a new lab and planning your exit.

Seek out counsel from your Program Director or Department Chair, first-year or graduate advisors, and any other mentors, including the Dean of Graduate Education and others in the Office of Graduate Education.

Switching thesis labs is not that uncommon. Other students have been in this position and can provide advice.