This is part II of my conversation with third year medical student, Sarah Petelinsek. Her journey into research was organic, based on her own interests and unique background. It’s true that research especially during the first year can be intimidating, the learning curve, finding the right people and projects. Often we don’t think that research can happen on our terms and based on our own interests. Sarah shares her story of a little research project that grew out of her love of back country skiing and pre med interest in behavioral economics. After gathering a team of mentors who shared her enthusiasm, great things started to happen. So, if you are curious and follow your interests, research can become a vehicle for finding mentors, exploring specialties, and successful residency interviews.