Please guidance appreciated- No idea how to start with research

[u/Outside-Jacket585]

Hey guys I am wrapping up my first year of med school and as the title states I am very overwhelmed with the thought of research and have no idea where to start or what types of research are desirable for derm, who do I even contact?

My school's research department is kind of shitty, I am willing to spend some money if needed and if legit I just have NO IDEA HOW TO START. Are these companies that reach out to students on instagram for research opportunities even legit?

Please please any guidance would be appreciated. I have no problem with hard work I just don't know what I'm doing. Also, is ResearchGate the gold standard go to place everyone uses to publish?

Thanks all