UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — A team of undergraduate researchers are prepared to share their experiences and help their peers become involved in research and find opportunities.
Instructors or student organization leaders from any Penn State campus can request a presentation from the Undergraduate Research Ambassador Program, choosing from current Penn State students with a variety of experiences in different academic fields. Students can also schedule one-on-one appointments through Starfish.
“We are fortunate to have a passionate group of undergraduate researchers willing to volunteer their time to share their experiences and help others get involved,” said Alan Rieck, associate vice president and associate dean for Undergraduate Education. “Undergraduate research opens possibilities for students to expand their thinking, explore their curiosities, build connections with others and make meaningful contributions to their communities throughout their lives.”
Research opportunities are available at every Penn State campus and in all academic fields. Some students may find themselves assisting on a research project alongside a graduate student, post-doctoral researcher or faculty. Other research experiences come from programs such as the Big Ten Summer Research Opportunities Program or the National Science Foundation Research Opportunities for Undergraduates. Students can also pursue individual projects under the supervision of a post-doc researcher or faculty member. Some courses also provide the chance to develop applied research skills.
The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Database can be used to start looking for opportunities but is not an exhaustive resource. Ambassadors can work individually with students to navigate department and faculty websites and help prepare introductory emails.
Learn more about undergraduate research from Undergraduate Research and Fellowships Mentoring (URFM). URFM is a part of Penn State Undergraduate Education.
Below is a gallery of the 2021-22 undergraduate research ambassadors. All students are currently at the University Park campus unless otherwise noted.