Research

Research is a journey fueled by curiosity and discovery that spans all disciplines and takes many forms. It begins with identifying a question, idea, theory, problem, or hypothesis and involves designing thoughtful inquiries, testing multiple methods, and sharing findings in meaningful ways. Transparency, collaboration, and ethical practices are essential to the research process.

Through your research experience, you will develop critical skills such as analytical thinking, innovative problem-solving, and effective communication—skills that transcend academic disciplines and prepare you for any career path. Research is not just about expanding knowledge; it is about engaging deeply with complex issues, collaborating across perspectives, and contributing to a community of scholars.

Undergraduate research fosters leadership by encouraging intellectual curiosity, resilience, and the ability to navigate uncertainty. It cultivates an environment where discovery thrives and scholars grow into leaders who drive innovation, inspire change, and make meaningful impact in their fields and beyond.

By engaging in research experiences, you will develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to:

1. Engage in Inquiry & Innovation
   1. Craft thoughtful questions and engage in the art of inquiry, fostering creativity and problem-solving, essential for both academic and professional innovation.
   2. Synthesize current trends and evaluate how thought leaders are addressing complex issues, strengthening industry awareness and providing context for future innovation and career decisions.
   3. Learn and apply research methodologies to gather, analyze, and interpret information effectively, a skill directly transferable to careers in data analysis, strategy, policy, and a multitude of industries.
2. Develop Expertise & Contribute to a Scholarly Community
   1. Build a base of knowledge in a specific research area, cultivating expertise that will position you as a thought leader in your chosen field or profession.
   2. Work collaboratively with a team to engage in interdisciplinary dialogue, strengthening collaboration skills that are crucial in a wide range of careers.
   3. Develop expertise through mentorship and contribute original ideas to your field, enhancing professional growth through relationships with experienced mentors and peers.
3. Analyze, Interpret, and Apply Knowledge
   1. Locate, interpret, and critically evaluate primary sources relevant to your research, preparing you for careers that require critical thinking and decision-making in complex environments.
   2. Collect, organize, and analyze data using appropriate methods, a key skill for fields such as research, consulting, policy analysis, and more.
   3. Articulate the broader significance of a research project and its connections to other fields, research, and ideas, helping you develop the ability to communicate your expertise and its relevance to a broad range of industries.
4. Communicate Research Effectively
   1. Thoughtfully share findings with an interdisciplinary audience through writing, presentations, or other public dissemination venues, fostering communication skills valuable for professional presentations, reports, and collaborations.
   2. Engage in meaningful conversations that advance knowledge and understanding, honing your ability to network, collaborate, ideate, and drive change in your career.
   3. Demonstrate the ability to communicate complex ideas in an accessible and compelling way, an essential skill for any career that requires influencing, teaching, or consulting others.
5. Apply Research to Real-World Challenges & Career Goals
   1. Lead innovative efforts toward solving the world’s complex problems, preparing for leadership roles across industries and fields.
   2. Connect research skills to career aspirations, demonstrating their relevance across industries and professions, whether in academia, business, government, or nonprofit sectors.
   3. Recognize the role of research in shaping policies, innovations, and societal change, positioning you as a leader capable of leveraging research for impactful career outcomes.

Through research experiences, you will develop skills that directly translate to professional success, including: 

• Analytical thinking and problem-solving 
• Effective communication and collaboration 
• Data collection, analysis, and interpretation 
• Ethical decision-making and critical thinking 
• Networking, mentorship, and teamwork

By integrating research into your academic and career journey, you will graduate with the tools, mindset, and expertise to apply your research skills to real-world challenges, paving the way for success in your chosen career path.