Students Getting Started
There are many aspects to consider when beginning a research project. From finding a mentor to choosing a topic. Here are some things to consider about undergraduate research:
- Get started in undergraduate research as early in your college career as possible. Stop by the URI in 232 Wallace to discuss your research options and use the tools and information available on this website.
- To choose a topic ask yourself what fields of research interest you. In choosing an area, it is wise to consider your interest in the topic, your academic background (course work completed, grades in relevant courses), and the relevance of the topic to your ultimate career goals. Be careful however not to equate your lack of experience with an inability to participate in a specific area of research. Ultimately, it will be your advisor's responsibility to decide whether or not you have enough background to carry out a project.
- When matched with a faculty mentor to work on their research or when assigned a mentor to aid you in your research endeavors it is important to discuss the roles and obligations for each of you. Items to discuss include:
- expectations
- goals of project
- timeline of project
- scheduled hours
- responsibilities
- communication
- distribution of research findings (i.e. presentations and publications)
- Working with a faculty mentor can be challenging and rewarding. For tips on how to best work with a faculty mentor click here.
- If you are working on an independent project it can be difficult to take on such a large project. For tips on working independently, click here.
- Additionally, working independently can highlight issues of time and stress management. For tips on time management, click here. For tips on stress management, click here.
- Above all else, realize that conducting research is a journey. You may hit a few bumps along the way but you will learn a tremendous amount about your field and yourself. And, do not forget that the staff at the URI are always here to lend a hand.
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