Getting Started

The Council on Undergraduate Research defines Undergraduate Research as “A mentored investigation or creative inquiry conducted by undergraduates that seeks to make a scholarly or artistic contribution to knowledge.” (Mission and Vision | Council on Undergraduate Research)

In other words, undergraduate research is original scholarly work done by undergraduate students, ideally under the guidance of a faculty member. What this looks like varies between and even within disciplines.

There are many benefits of research. Research is a chance to explore your curiosities and be creative. Find what you are interested in. Find what you like spending your time and energy on. (And what you don’t like spending your time and energy on!) You will learn how to problem-solve, collaborate, and synthesize information. You will do all of this on your way to solving real world problems.

Research is a time when you will grow as a thinker, writer, communicator, and a person. Students find that these experiences help them clarify career interests and post-graduation plans. Research helps you strengthen skills that employers look for even when those jobs are not explicitly research positions or are in different disciplines or sectors. You will also develop a unique relationship with your mentor and meet interesting people!