Getting Started
A page within Undergraduate Research & Creativity
"In my opinion, the Undergraduate Research & Creativity program is one of the most valuable resources available to UWL students. This opportunity provided me with the motivation, not to mention the funds, to travel to Bolivia to complete my research and get a jump start on writing my senior thesis. I was also able to present my research to peers, professors, state senators, congressmen/women, and even to Wisconsin's Governor due to the Office of Undergraduate Research and Creativity's sponsorship of events like [Research] in the Rotunda and Undergraduate Research & Creativity Symposium."
- Matt Sitek, UWL Undergraduate Research participant
Getting Started
Working on a research or creative project with a faculty member is an opportunity for you to go beyond traditional classroom learning and become actively involved in creating knowledge and new meaning within a discipline. Every fall and spring, we have a Getting Started in Undergraduate Research & Creativity seminar; click here for the slides from the last presentation.
When should I start?
You can start engaging in research as early as you like. Many students begin as a freshman, which allows them to determine if their major is a good fit for them. We recommend starting by your sophomore or junior year if you want to write undergraduate research grants, which can provide funding for your project, and are excellent additions to future graduate school or job applications.
Identifying your research interests
Research is a hands-on way to explore different interests within your field. You do not have to limit your research interests to just your major, but they should still be in academic areas of interest to you. You may develop an idea of your interests based on class activities such as reading, researching for class assignments, or discussing topics in class. Look and listen for announcements from faculty members seeking student researchers on bulletin boards, in classes, or at seminars.
Finding a mentor
Identify a few faculty members who have similar research interests and ask if they have time to supervise an undergraduate researcher. If they do, arrange to meet with them to discuss available options. One of the quickest and easiest ways to learn what faculty members' research interests are is by visiting the Our People page for each department.
If you are having trouble identifying a faculty mentor, please email us at srcel@uwlax.edu.
Ways to participate
There are several ways to participate in undergraduate research:
- Volunteer: Most professors involved in research are willing to take on student volunteers. This method allows you the most flexibility in how much time you can dedicate.
- Take a research credit: Many disciplines allow students to receive elective credit for undergraduate research.
- Seek student employment: Some professors have funding that allows them to hire student workers.
- Apply for grants/programs: There are several UWL grant opportunities and programs that provide funding for undergraduate researchers.
- Present: There are a variety of opportunities available to present your research or creative project, whether on-campus, statewide, or nationally.
NOTE: If you are planning to conduct research outside of the U.S. or its territories, please work with the Office of International Education & Engagement (IEE) to plan your travel.