Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I do research?
Doing research in your field exposes you to knowledge in your discipline in greater depth, provides a context for much of what you learn in the classroom, and helps you explore possible career avenues.

What are the benefits of doing research?
Research prepares you for a career in your discipline, boosts your graduate school and professional opportunities, and helps you be a better student. Your work as a student researcher contributes to the knowledge base that moves science, engineering and other scholarly pursuits forward. Working with other students on research has the added benefit of joining a community of support and provides an enhanced feeling of belonging.

I don’t have straight A’s. Can I still do research?
Your grades are important but they’re not everything. If you have a strong interest in learning and the dedication to working in research reach out to faculty members whose work you are interested in and find out if there are opportunities working with them.

I want to do research but I don’t even know how to begin finding an opportunity. What should I do?
Visit your professors during office hours and ask about what they do. Get to know them. Even if their work is not exactly what you are interested in they might be able to suggest other faculty members you can reach out to. Reach out to Science Advising/CCAPP or to your department advisors for help on how to get started. It may take some time to find an opportunity. Don’t give up!