We’re partnering with the IDEA Center to help undergraduates learn how to get opportunities to do real research. Join us for a workshop on Wednesday, Jan. 24, 3-4:30 p.m. and learn about Summer Research Opportunities for Undergraduates.
If you have ever been told by a professor that you should take part in research while you are an undergraduate, but you have no idea where to start, know that you are not alone. Conducting research or working in a faculty member’s research laboratory is an important step in enhancing your graduate school applications. However, finding opportunities to take part in research can be tricky, especially if you are on the introverted side and just not ready to walk up to someone and ask them to be your research mentor. If you are reading this and thinking, “hey, that’s me” then the odds are, an REU might be the first step in you becoming a researcher.
REU is an acronym for Research Experiences for Undergraduates. REUs are research programs that take place during the Summer at various universities across the country and mostly focus on STEM research fields. They give you the opportunity to work under faculty researchers alongside other undergraduates. Most often, you are provided a stipend and assistance to cover housing and food. Why not get paid to conduct research and gain confidence in your potential as a scholar that you can then bring back to Texas State University in the Fall semester.
If you are ready to begin your journey as a researcher and think an REU is a great place to begin, we encourage you to attend the REUs and You: Summer Research Opportunities for Undergraduates workshop hosted by TXST University Libraries and the IDEA Center. Attendees will learn about how they can apply for these opportunities and what support is available at Texas State University as they explore becoming an undergraduate researcher. Register now!
This article was contributed by Dr. Erin Dorrell, undergraduate research librarian.