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Frequently Asked Questions about Undergraduate Research
(adapted from the Cornell University Undergraduate Research site)
Why should I do research as an undergraduate?
I’m not a scientist or an engineer. Can I still do research?
Do I have to wait until I’m an upper class student to conduct research?
What if I have my own project in mind?
How do I find a research mentor for my project?
How do I know which faculty are doing research?
Can I do a project outside of my home department?
How can I get funding?
How much time will a project take?
Does undergraduate research help me get into graduate school?
How do I decide whether to go abroad?
Are there any university-wide requirements for doing research as an undergraduate?
What if I no longer enjoy doing my research?
Why should I do research as an undergraduate?
A: Undergraduate research (1) teaches you about a field you are interested in, (2) helps you to explore potential academic and professional interests, and (3) helps you define your own style. There is no one reason for doing research; hundreds of students would tell you a myriad of answers. Rather, undergraduate research is an enriching process by which you gain skills and knowledge.
I’m not a scientist or an engineer. Can I still do research?
A: Absolutely!
One of the greatest myths about research is that it is only for the sciences. The truth of the matter is that research is limitless and has unbelievable freedoms. Students in the humanities and social sciences also engage in undergraduate research. There are also many interdisciplinary projects that transcend departments.
Do I have to wait until I’m an upper class student to conduct research?
A: No.
Many freshmen and sophomores decide to explore their options by volunteering in labs or on projects and networking. Through this process, they develop the necessary skills to help them to move on to research positions that really interest them during junior and senior year.
Take your schedule into consideration and allow yourself a nice transition. Get involved in undergraduate research when you’re ready and your schedule permits dedicated time.
What if I have my own project in mind?
A: Make use of Rice’s resources and pursue an outlet for your interests.
Your goal is to find someone to help you with your project by first developing your interests.
The first step involves developing familiarity with your field of interest. You’d benefit from taking classes that relate to the project you someday hope to complete. This will introduce you to the elementary material and to the professors who love the subject. Read on your own and pursue your project as the passion that it is. Attend lectures on campus and speak with faculty. Eventually you will find someone who works in your field of interest and may even take you under his or her wing.
Once you’ve proven your interest and commitment, he or she may help you with the project that got you started in the first place. Along the way, you’ll have gained an understanding of your project in relation to so much more.
How do I find a research mentor for my project?
A: Professors that you’ve had in class are a great place to start. You may also consider asking your fellow students who their research mentors are and consider joining their team.
How do I know which faculty are doing research?
A: Start by visiting department websites, meeting with academic advisors, and reading articles in your area of interest.
Also, fellow students can be your best resource when it comes to sharing what they find interesting about faculty. You may also get insight regarding who will best match your interests.
Can I do a project outside of my home department?
A: ABSOLUTELY!
Taking time to pursue research outside of your major and department is a great chance to explore and become a well-rounded student. Often, you’ll learn that the techniques and principles applied in a given field relate to the one you are studying. Interdisciplinary synthesis is a powerful tool that you will develop. It is a skill that will be called forth once you leave Rice.
How can I get funding?
A: Ask your research mentor if he/she has funding available. Also visit the Undergraduate Research website or office. Some departments may have funding or there maybe external funding opportunities, but you need to start your search early. Don’t wait until the last minute.
How much time will a project take?
A: It depends.
When considering whether to become involved in undergraduate research, you should first consider what level of commitment you are willing to provide. Undergraduate research is a mutual arrangement between you and your research mentor.
Some students work in excess of twenty hours per week; generally they are working towards an honors thesis or for credit. Students volunteering in a lab may work about two to three hours per week. It is really a decision that you and your research mentor must make. There are varying levels of commitment that will fit into you schedule. You must simply communicate what you want to learn and make sure that you are in control of personal time management.
Does undergraduate research help me get into graduate school?
A: Well, it depends.
Undergraduate research is not a stepping stool. It is not a requirement but rather an opportunity for you to learn about yourself. Clearly, pursuit of research will grant you command of a slice of information. More importantly, you will become more knowledgeable about your research skills and personal qualities.
So yes, undergraduate research will help you get into graduate school by identifying your strengths and interests.
But no, undergraduate research won't simply get you in because you’ve gone through the motions.
Undergraduate research is an invaluable experience that confers understanding more about yourself than anything else.
How do I decide whether to go abroad?
A: Going abroad and undergraduate research are not mutually exclusive.
While they share separate support services and offices, they actually enhance each other.
Going abroad may not necessarily involve literally working in an international lab or with an international scholar. Rather you will develop skills in a foreign country that may enhance your undergraduate experience.
Are there any university-wide requirements for doing research as an undergraduate?
A: Yes.
The Office of Fellowships and Undergraduate Research would like all students involved in research to register with the office, so that we can collect data on the types of undergraduate research taking place on and off campus.
What if I no longer enjoy doing my research?
A: Students leave their research for a variety of reasons, such as change in research interests, not enough time in their schedule, or if the dynamics between their research mentor or lab/research group just aren’t right.
Be truthful with yourself. If you feel you can no longer commit to your research for whatever reason, it is ok to either stop or switch to something else. There are several resources you could contact to discuss your situation, such as your academic advisor, departmental advisor, or someone in the OFUR office. They are there to help you make your transition.
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