Getting Started in Undergraduate Research and Scholarship
Every GVSU student can get involved in undergraduate research and scholarship. Whether you are a first-year student or a year from graduation, there are many opportunities available in any field or discipline. Some students will work on part of a faculty member’s current research project. Other students may develop an independent project of their own that is guided by a faculty member. Either way, students have opportunities in a variety of disciplines from art history to zoology to engage in original hands-on research and scholarship.
Why Do Research?
Undergraduate research and scholarship is a unique opportunity for students to work with faculty on their scholarship and produce a presentation, paper, or creative work that contributes to the knowledge or activity of a particular academic discipline.
Students who participate in undergraduate research benefit in the following ways:
- Connecting with students and faculty that share academic interests
- Better understanding of research methods
- Deeper understanding of the discipline
- Greater confidence and independence
- Better understanding of career and education path
In addition, the literature also indicates that student who participate in research and scholarship are:
- More satisfied with their college experience
- Retained and persist at a higher rate, both at the university and within their major
- More likely to be accepted to graduate and professional school and graduate.
- More competitive when searching for jobs
Events
GVSU Summer Research Orientation
May 6, 2024 All Day
OURS Summer Scholar Programs Orientation for 2024 (all scholars and mentors).
Student Scholars Day
April 9, 2025 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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,...
How to Get Started
Start Exploring |
Learn more about research within your department: Explore possible research opportunities through your department: Attend Undergraduate Research Fair and Student Scholars Day: |
Benefits -Learn what types of research are going on within your department |
Make Connections |
Talk to your faculty advisor and professors about research and how to get involved: |
Benefits -Discover your areas of interest |
Immerse Yourself |
Take courses that emphasize research methodology and consider 399/499 courses Get involved with a research project by working with a faculty mentor Consider applying for a summer research program such as S3 or MS3 |
Benefits -Gain foundational knowledge on research methodology |
Reap the Rewards |
Present at Student Scholars Day Attend or present at a professional conference within your discipline Submit your work for publication |
Benefits -Develop dissemination and presentation skills |