Many students dread research but once they become involved find it rewarding and exciting. There are numerous reasons to participate in an undergraduate research project. It allows you to gain hands-on experience and develop skills that may be necessary for your future career. Research may allow you to collaborate with faculty or other students and increase your analytic skills. It may give you an opportunity to present at professional conferences and network with professionals in the field. Undergraduate research can also help you figure out if want to keep studying further in a particular field and if graduate school is right for you. If you plan on going for a doctorate, research experience can be critical. Be sure to check with your advisor to see what opportunity is appropriate for you.

Office of Undergraduate Research Grand Valley has established this office to assist students in their research pursuits and to help them find funding for research and travel to conferences to present research.
Student Scholars Day Student Scholars Day (SSD) is held once each year to celebrate the scholarship and creative work performed by GVSU students. The day showcases faculty-mentored student work, shared through many venues, including (but not limited to) oral presentations, discussion and panel sessions, fine arts exhibits and performances, and poster presentations.
Student Summer Scholars The Student Summer Scholars Program (S3) provides funds for a student and faculty mentor to devote twelve weeks to research and/or a creative project during the spring/summer semester. Generally, S3 Grants provide a student stipend, faculty stipend, and a small budget for supplies. Grants do not exceed $6,000. Combining academics, fieldwork, and a reflection component provides students with a meaningful learning experience that helps to prepare them for graduate school and future careers.
McNair Scholars Program The McNair Scholars are matched with faculty research mentors. They receive academic counseling, mentoring, advising, and GRE preparation. In addition to the above services, the McNair scholars have opportunities to attend research seminars, conduct research, and present their findings orally or written via poster presentations. In the first semester of their senior year, the scholars receive assistance with the graduate school application process.