Hi, I am an undergrad student from Brazil, in my 4th year of biomedical sciences. I really want to take a pos-graduation course in Europe, and build a life there, I should say. I still have one year and a half to finish my course, but I am already looking at possibilities. I know which area I want to work in, and have been looking for labs that would be interesting for me. I am sorry if my doubts are too basic, but some things are making me a bit worried. First of all, is it too soon to contact a teacher? I don`t know if they would appreciate that, or think that I am rushing too much. It is just because I thought it would be a good idea to let the teacher know I am interested, maybe say I have read some of the papers etc (ofc, just for the ones I am really interested). Is it stupid or...? Also, I can`t afford the fees (and the living costs), so I would have to apply for a fully funded place. But I don`t if I got it right but, do I have to do that after I have accepted a place somewhere? If I don`t get the scholarship, will I just say I can`t take the course anymore? Finally, here in Brazil I have to take a masters degree first, and then do a doctoral research. If I don`t have to do masters there, why would I choose this? I mean, what would be the best for me?
I am sorry for the long post, and I would really appreciate any type of advice (even not about the questions I pointed out) you could give.
Thanks!