Charles Pazdernik
Professor Department of Classics
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
Dr. Erin Carrier
Dr. Erin Carrier is an Assistant Professor of Computing and Information Systems. B.S., GVSU; Ph.D., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She shared some advice on preparing for graduate school.
Events
Research OUT LOUD! (INT 100 Approved)
November 12, 2025 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Learn about undergraduate research from students who do research! Come join us for “Research Out Loud”- a fun, casual, student-led event of being proud and loud about undergraduate research! The...
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?
November 20, 2025 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...
Get Involved in Undergraduate Research Walk-In Workshop
December 3, 2025 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Curious about getting started in undergraduate research? Stop by anytime between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. to connect with the Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarship (OURS) team! This drop-in workshop...
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