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Office of Undergraduate Research Division of Academic Engagement and Student Achievement

Undergraduate Research Process

Guide to Getting Started and Being Successful

As an undergraduate, you can conduct research with WSU faculty mentors to create new knowledge, or add to the existing knowledge of your field. When we say “research,” we don’t mean just activities conducted in labcoats. It’s much broader than that; we define it as “research, scholarship, and creative activity” that makes new contributions to a branch of knowledge.

Becoming an undergraduate researcher can be an intimidating and challenging endeavor. However, as many undergraduate researchers will tell you, becoming a successful researcher is worth the extra work and will help you get the most out of your education at WSU.

To make the process easier, we have prepared this three-part guide to help you get started on your way.

Part 1: Getting Started with Research

This section will answer questions like:

  • Can I handle having a research job and doing school at the same time?
  • How do I find a research position at WSU?

You will find the resources you need to find job openings and learn how to speak with professors. More>>

Part 2: Being a Successful Researcher

This section addresses questions such as:

  • What does being a researcher entail?
  • What kind of time will I have to put in?
  • How will it affect my GPA?

These are some of the many questions we are asked at our information sessions. This section details the ins and outs of what it takes to be a successful undergraduate researcher at WSU More>>

Part 3: Disseminating Your Work

Regardless of the form it takes, research is fundamentally about advancing human knowledge. So what good is your work if you keep it yourself? The final section will discuss how to disseminate research and create buzz for your work within academia and industry. More>>

Undergraduate Research Info Session

Undergraduate Research often hosts information sessions for aspiring researchers. Upcoming sessions will be announced on the Undergraduate Research news page.