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Why Do Research as an Undergraduate Student?

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student working in a lab in a lab coat using test tube type materials

1. Hands-On Learning

Hands-on learning emphasizes students actively participating with subject matter, rather than passively listening and reading. Applied to research, undergraduates can develop practical skills for their careers, learn to think critically and fine-tune their problem-solving skills.

2. Gain Experience

Research experience as an undergraduate looks great on a resume for graduate and professional school applications. As an undergraduate, you can have the opportunity to present your research, which helps you improve your communication skills.

3. Mentorship

Doing research as an undergraduate student can help you form connections with faculty who can serve as mentors. Faculty mentors can provide academic and personal guidance, introduce you to networking opportunities and write letters of recommendation to graduate and professional school.

Ways to Get Involved in Undergraduate Research

Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE)

The SURE fellowship program is funded by the West Virginia Research Challenge Fund that is administered by the WV Higher Education Policy Commission, Division of Science and Research. This program encourages promising and enthusiastic young researchers from Marshall and other WV institutions to expand their experience in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Undergraduate Creative Discovery & Research Scholar Award Program

The Undergraduate Creative Discovery and Research Scholar award program provides Marshall University students with an opportunity to pursue original creative work, scholarship or research, under the mentorship of a full-time faculty member.

Additional Undergraduate Research Opportunities are available on the Office of Student Research website.