The What, Why, and How of Student Research at USJ 

Are you interested in finding the answers to relevant, real-world questions? If so, then research might be right for you. This is an opportunity to learn more about your interests outside of the classroom in a hands-on, 1:1, unique experience. This opportunity is open to all students, regardless of major, program, or year of study. Students can conduct research within or outside of their major, and there may be opportunities for projects occurring on–campus or remotely.

• Apply classroom knowledge to real world problems – It is fulfilling to see the importance of all the work you have done in your classes and be able to apply it to solve relevant questions. 
• Gain a mentor – The professor you choose to work with becomes another guide on your academic journey. They know you both on a professional and personal level and can help you achieve your academic and professional career goals. They are also a great resource for professional letters of recommendation or as a resume reference. 
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills – Research is not a linear process. You often must be creative to solve all the problems that come up. This helps you to strengthen your critical thinking skills, problem solving skills, and resilience. 
• Develop collaboration skills – During your research, you will work with your professor and other students at times, helping you to become a better team member. 
• Develop communication skills – After some time in research, you will be presenting your hard work, helping you to become better at communicating your ideas in a succinct and professional way. 
• Resume development – Because of all the skills you gain through research, it is considered impressive on a resume to say that you participated in it. 
• Career exploration – Find out if research is something you would enjoy doing full time.

1. Do some preliminary research on USJ’s professors here to get a feel for what research options are available.
   TIP: You can find links to some professor’s personal research under their bios.
2. Check out some existing research opportunities at USJ here.
3. Consider your interests, academic goals, and career path and think about which research fields mix all these ideas.
4. Reach out to the professors who interest you (email is a great way to do this). They are always happy to hear from students who share their interests! These can be professors you’ve had classes with already, or ones you have not met yet.
5. You’ll then meet with the professor(s) for a preliminary conversation or more formal interview. Make sure to show your interest and all the thought you have put into choosing this research topic.
6. The professor can share their research in more depth and may either give you some options of their previous projects you can branch your research into, or you can come to them with your own idea related to their research.
7. Follow up with the faculty you are interested in working with (likely via email) so that they know of your continued interest.