Getting to Know Your College Laboratory

Getting to Know Your College Laboratory

When you begin college to pursue a degree in science, the lab will be a big part of your life. You should take some time to prepare yourself by learning about your school’s lab requirements and protocols. This will help you prepare for success before you ever set foot on campus. Take the following into consideration as you prepare for a college career in research:

Laboratory Notebooks

Your school may supply notebooks for you, or you may need to provide your own. The lab notebook is one of the most important pieces of equipment you will use, as it is the place where you will record all your data. You will want to make sure that you have an official lab notebook, which is completely different from a regular college notebook. If you fail to use the proper documentation tools, you may not pass your courses. 

Equipment

Depending on the lab course you are taking, you may be required to wear special lab equipment. This could mean a lab coat, protective shoes, goggles, or gloves. You’ll want to make sure that you put these items on every time you are in the lab, before you begin any experiments or research. Not wearing the proper equipment could render your findings incomplete or inaccurate.

Using the proper equipment and laboratory notebooks is critical for your success as a student of science. Make sure you know what your school’s requirements are, so you can produce the best work possible, and prepare yourself for a lifetime of prosperous research.