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PassionatePossum t1_j8w86k2 wrote

People end up as co-authors on papers for all sorts of reasons. Some co-authors contributed as much to the paper as the primary author. But most of the time the co-authors didn't do a whole lot (maybe just provided some data). Without knowing anything about the paper and how it was produced, I tend to assume the latter.

But as an undergraduate it is definitely something you can point to during interviews. Having already worked on a research project (even if it is just in a minor capacity) makes you more interesting as a candidate. And it serves as a nice entry point into the interview. From there one can discuss what exactly you contributed, what you have learned while doing so and so on.

So I would say: Notable, yes. Something special, no.

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[deleted] OP t1_j8xxora wrote

[deleted]

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PassionatePossum t1_j8y9oam wrote

I assume that you are based in the U.S. I'm not really familiar with the U.S. system of "grad school" so take what I say with a grain of salt.

Publishing a paper is certainly a good way to show your professor, that you are capable of doing research but probably not absolutely necessary. Having a reputation as a reliable and capable student should also go a long way to convince your professor that you are a good cancidate.

Working with one of the PhD students on their research project should also be a good way to earn your professor's trust.

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Competitive-Rub-1958 t1_j92lak6 wrote

What about for top-tier conferences/journals? would top-3 be generally viewed as decent, or does you just have to be the first author? 🤔

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