How do I frame a research experience that didn't go as planned for grad school apps?
I'm preparing my application for a master's in epidemiology or biostatistics for Fall 2027, and I keep getting stuck on this: how do I frame my research experience in my resume, SOP, and PS? I don't want to oversell myself, but at the same time I don't want potential employers and admissions teams to think I really did nothing just because I didn't present a poster or attend exhibitions.
Some background: I pursued research during my undergrad, but it didn't work out the way I wanted. It was my first research assistant position (NSF-funded), but it was also the same semester I switched from a business major to statistics, which meant I had to finish my degree in 1.5 years. I was on top of my grades when I made the switch and graduated with high honors. I took the risk of juggling coursework and research because I wanted to make the best out of my college experience and I'd regret it if I didn't try. It was a choice between joining the honors college to produce my own undergrad thesis or taking this research position.
I was enthusiastic about the role because it meant I would learn advanced topics earlier but I was given no direction. Luckily, there was a PhD student who helped me break down difficult concepts. I know that being in research means I'm pretty much on my own. However, I received no guidance at all and was given only the topics to study on my own. As an undergrad, I thought that was a little unfair. I did talk to my professor multiple times, but he made it seem like I don't work hard enough, which was very demotivating.
I recently experienced a life-threatening health condition, which made me more confident in choosing this field. Despite having a bad research experience, I see this as a learning curve and I still have passion for statistics and healthcare work/research. I can't seem to see the good side of things because I only got the knowledge but not the trust/connection. I don't think my professor would write me a strong recommendation though because I didn’t meet his expectations :(