Should I change my research paper topic to something that interests me?

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Natalie

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A prof at my university agreed to let me take one of his history courses via correspondence, because I was living out of town, on the condition that I chose an essay topic related to his research interests (since the correspondence course would result in extra work for him). I was very grateful.

Before classes began, I decided to move back to the city where my university is located, and attend classes.

As a token of my gratitude toward him, I'd like to stick with the original plan of choosing a topic related to his research interests, even though I'm now living in town. BUT I've looked at the material and I'm very uninspired. On the other hand, I've found another area that interests me.

I want to be careful not to seem ungrateful, because I appreciate his initial willingness to help me out (other profs said no). PLUS, he's supervising an additional independent study with me this semester related to MY research interests.
 
Talk to him, I'm sure he would understand. If he is a good prof he will probably try to motivate you to stick to his research interest but will leave the option open to you. But dont do it without talking to him first.
 
Ask him if he would mind if you change to a topic that interests you more. That way you will be more inspired and do a better job.
 
You've made something of an agreement and although the situations have changed I'd be cautious to not try to backpedal too quickly. Try to find an approach to his field of study that you can find interesting.and run with that. You also wouldn't want to irk him with a changed mind when he will be in your educational future. Step up and work outside of your comfort zone, you'll be a bigger person for the experience.
 
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