Is Undergraduate Research Worth It?

Our Tip of the Week comes to us from Arya, a volunteer with the Undergraduate Research Initiative (URI)! 

Students in lab coats holding beakers is the first image that usually pops up when asked to think about undergraduate research. Unfortunately, it is a common misconception among art students that research is reserved only for natural sciences and individuals who want to build a career in academia. In reality, however, the realm of undergraduate research extends much beyond natural sciences and it benefits students in every discipline. Undoubtedly, undergraduate research experience will look great on your grad school application but the skills you develop through it will be of use in every phase of your career.

Here are three reasons why you should consider participating in undergraduate research even if you don't aim to get into grad school.

1. Hands-on experience: Undergraduate research is the key to getting a peek at what your future might look like in a particular field. You may have read everything you possibly can about your field and your career but absolutely nothing can beat first-hand experience. Undergraduate research is your opportunity to look deeper into your area of interest and make a much more informed decision about your career.

2. Step outside the classroom: Skills developed while participating in research will help you beyond the walls of academia. Undergraduate research experience will allow you to develop a diverse set of transferable skills you can use to impress your future employers no matter what field. You might not need to know super-specific statistical calculations for your dream job but communication and critical thinking skills will always come in handy!

3. Build your network: Engaging in undergraduate research is an excellent opportunity for you to expand your network beyond your classmates and professors. Networking is a crucial aspect of career development and as you dive deeper into research you may have the opportunity to meet a diverse group of industry professionals and create a network of reliable, experienced individuals to assist with your career development.

This list might end at three but it barely grazes the surface of the innumerable benefits of undergraduate research. Research might not be everybody’s cup of tea but it is definitely worth looking into when wanting to be extra prepared for your dream job!