Getting Started in Undergraduate Research and Scholarship
Every GVSU student can get involved in undergraduate research and scholarship. Whether you are a first-year student or a year from graduation, there are many opportunities available in any field or discipline. Some students will work on part of a faculty member’s current research project. Other students may develop an independent project of their own that is guided by a faculty member. Either way, students have opportunities in a variety of disciplines from art history to zoology to engage in original hands-on research and scholarship.
Why Do Research?
Undergraduate research and scholarship is a unique opportunity for students to work with faculty on their scholarship and produce a presentation, paper, or creative work that contributes to the knowledge or activity of a particular academic discipline.
Students who participate in undergraduate research benefit in the following ways:
- Connecting with students and faculty that share academic interests
- Better understanding of research methods
- Deeper understanding of the discipline
- Greater confidence and independence
- Better understanding of career and education path
In addition, the literature also indicates that student who participate in research and scholarship are:
- More satisfied with their college experience
- Retained and persist at a higher rate, both at the university and within their major
- More likely to be accepted to graduate and professional school and graduate.
- More competitive when searching for jobs
Events
Undergraduate Research Fair
October 3, 2023 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
The thirteenth annual Undergraduate Research Fair will take place Tuesday, October 3, 2023, from 5 p.m to 7 p.m. in 2250 Kirkhof Center (Grand River Room). At the event, students...
Get Involved in Undergraduate Research
October 4, 2023 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
This session will introduce students to the ins and outs of undergraduate research. We will discuss what undergraduate university research is (and isn’t), what you can expect from a variety of...
How to Get Started
Start Exploring |
Learn more about research within your department: Explore possible research opportunities through your department: Attend Undergraduate Research Fair and Student Scholars Day: |
Benefits -Learn what types of research are going on within your department |
Make Connections |
Talk to your faculty advisor and professors about research and how to get involved: |
Benefits -Discover your areas of interest |
Immerse Yourself |
Take courses that emphasize research methodology and consider 399/499 courses Get involved with a research project by working with a faculty mentor Consider applying for a summer research program such as S3 or MS3 |
Benefits -Gain foundational knowledge on research methodology |
Reap the Rewards |
Present at Student Scholars Day Attend or present at a professional conference within your discipline Submit your work for publication |
Benefits -Develop dissemination and presentation skills |