Research Benefits
Participating in undergraduate research prepares you for your post-graduation plans by expanding your academic experience and giving you the opportunity to explore an academic discipline more fully.
There are many benefits to becoming a researcher, including:
- Transferable Skills: Undergraduate research strengthens written and oral communication, critical thinking, technical skills, and information literacy.
- Graduate and Professional School: Undergraduate researchers are more likely to move into graduate programs.
- Academic Achievement: Undergraduate researchers demonstrate higher achievement and are more likely to stay in school.
- Career Goals: Undergraduate research can help you clarify your choice of degree program, career interests, and post-graduation plans.
- Community: Undergraduate research provides opportunities to build a learning community with faculty and fellow students.
- Confidence: Undergraduate research builds confidence in your abilities within the discipline, and improves your overall perception of the discipline.
Set yourself up for success after graduation; participate in undergraduate research.
How Research Prepares You for What’s Next
Letters of Recommendation
Whether you are interested in graduate/profession school or landing your dream job, You’ll likely need 3–4 letters of recommendation or references. One of the best ways to earn these is by getting involved in undergraduate research. It’s a great opportunity to work closely with faculty, build meaningful relationships, and gain mentors who can vouch for your skills and potential.
Interview Preparation
With over 60,000 students, UCF is a big place. Participating in undergraduate research allows for unique experiences that go beyond the classroom. Whether you’re working independently or in a small team, these projects give you stories and communication skills to share during interviews for grad school, professional programs, or jobs. It’s your chance to shine with something truly original.
Expand Your Resume
Research is also an opportunity to expand your academic and professional journey. As an undergraduate researcher, you can:
- Present your work at conferences (on and off campus)
- Earn scholarships and fellowships
- Take course credit for research
- Defend a thesis or even publish your findings
All of these accomplishments look amazing on your resume and show future schools or employers that you’re serious and capable.