How Do I Get Started?
To assist students in getting started in undergraduate research the Office of Undergraduate Research offers the following resources:
Peer Mentorship through the Student Undergraduate Research Council
Components and Steps
There are three essential components to undergraduate research:
- STUDENT – has an attitude that reflects being open-minded and excited about engaging in research.
- RESEARCH PROJECT- undergraduates can do research within any discipline. For examples of recent undergraduate research projects please review last year’s Showcase program.
- FACULTY MENTOR - willing to devote time to helping to develop an undergraduate’s research skills by expanding his/her knowledge of the discipline.
STEP 1: Engaging in Self-Assessment
Before you begin research there are a few questions to ask yourself.
STEP 2: Exploring the Types of Research Opportunities at UCF
There are many research opportunities available to undergraduates at UCF.
STEP 3: Identifying Potential Faculty Mentors
Every undergraduate researcher requires a faculty mentor to help focus his/her research interests.
STEP 4: Contacting and Meeting With Potential Faculty Mentors
Learn the best ways to approach a potential faculty mentor.
STEP 5: Selecting a Faculty Mentor and Beginning Research
Once a faculty mentor is selected and agrees to guide an undergraduate researcher, research work can begin.
