I don't really care to go into the details of what happened, but it was an overall good experience. It took approximately 3 hours, I had blood samples taken throughout to test for different hormone levels after completing a "stressful" task, I relaxed (I didn't get the Reiki therapy; I got to lay down for 30 minutes listening to relaxing music - I was allowed to sleep!), and then I got apple juice and graham crackers. All in all, the best $50 I've made.
Things to Ponder when Participating in Medical Research:
- Know what you are getting yourself into. With any medical research, if it is legit, you will have to sign an informed consent form. Read it. It will include any risks, benefits, and inform you of the purpose of the study.
- Follow the rules. There may be guidelines you need to follow before coming to the study. For example: no food/drink 12 hours before participation. Sure, you're getting paid to do something simple but time and energy are being used to work with you. Don't screw up the study and waste the researcher's time by disobeying the guidelines. If you're unsure, ask questions.
- "Thank God it's Friday night and I just got paid". Oh N*SYNC. But it's true: find out when you'll be paid. Sometimes the researcher will hand you a check or petty cash voucher upon completion of the task; other times you will receive a check in the mail. If you are hoping this study will get you through your next phone bill, this will be valuable information. If you are not in need of the quick cash, it is still good to keep in contact with the researcher because let's face it - the postal service does have some room for error.
My first experience as a research participant, instead of the investigator, was pretty rewarding both monetarily as well as in a sense of "I did something to further science, today". With the right study, my schedule being available, and a good incentive I would probably do it again.
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