Anthony Spencer
Assistant Professor Communication Studies
Welcome to the Center for Undergraduate Scholar Engagement
The Center for Undergraduate Scholar Engagement (CUSE) serves students interested in pursuing academic and creative experiences and projects outside the classroom. CUSE houses the Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarship (OURS) and the Frederik Meijer Office of Fellowships. Together we have a mission to provide students with the opportunity to conduct research, apply for competitive inter/national fellowship/scholarships to fund study abroad, post-graduate opportunities, and more.
Interested in making the most of your undergraduate experience at Grand Valley? Seeking opportunities to pursue research, immerse yourself in language study, pursue a competitive internship, prepare well for graduate or professional school - or for gap-year experiences after graduation like Peace Corps or a Fulbright? We can help!
OURS
OFFICE OF UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP
FELLOWSHIPS
FREDERIK MEIJER OFFICE OF FELLOWSHIPS
CUSE Spotlights
Molly McGuire ('26), a biochemistry major, is awarded a Van Andel Student Summer Research Fellowship for Summer 2025
Molly McGuire '26, a biochemistry major, has been awarded a Van Andel Student Summer Research Fellowship for Summer 2025.
Events
Connecting With A Faculty Mentor
February 4, 2026 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Building strong connections with faculty is an essential step in getting involved in undergraduate research, but knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. This hands-on workshop gives students...
Removing Language Barriers to Student Success and Belonging
February 9, 2026 4:00 PM - 4:50 PM
Join Melanie Rabine-Johnson, Academic Resources and Retention Specialist, to discuss college as a foreign culture and language new to students, regardless of their background and experiences. Melanie...
Fellowships Information Session: Planning to apply for the Gilman? Exploring Fulbright? Interested in the NSF Goldwater for students planning on graduate research in STEM? Curious about fellowship opportunities generally?
February 10, 2026 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Welcome! Join us to explore the world of nationally competitive fellowships. Planning to apply for the Gilman to help defray the cost of GVSU undergraduate study abroad? Exploring Fulbright or another...
GVNEXT News
GVSU collaboration powers return of national conference on student research
Building on its partnership with Grand Valley, the Council on Undergraduate Research has announced that its flagship event will return to Grand Rapids in 2027 — marking the city’s second time hosting the national gathering in three years.
Aug 27, 2025
Students unveil research projects at Summer Scholars Showcase
Summer is a prime time for GVSU researchers. We'll show you some of the projects making an impact.
Jul 25, 2025
GVSU receives $1.6 million state grant to launch fund that invests in startups
The fund will focus on high-tech early stage companies in Kent County with proceeds going back into the fund for additional start-up help.
Jul 14, 2025
Provost, graduates highlight impact of undergraduate research at conference
As a first-generation student, Nkrumah Grant., '14, never imagined doing research — until GVSU gave him the chance. That experience eventually led him to a faculty role at the University of Illinois. Grant joined two fellow GVSU graduates and Provost Jennifer Drake at a conference to share how undergraduate research and faculty mentorship changed their lives.
Jun 17, 2025
Lakers recognized nationally for academic excellence, global engagement
Grand Valley students and recent graduates continue to excel on the national stage, earning competitive scholarships and fellowships that support their academic and professional growth.
May 8, 2025
GVSU celebrates innovation, research at Student Scholars Day
For nearly 30 years, Student Scholars Day has provided students opportunities to collaborate with faculty mentors, expand their academic interests and contribute to the advancement of their field of study.
Apr 9, 2025