Skip to Content

Undergraduate Research

Getting Started in Research Toolkit

Undergraduate Research strengthens academic understanding and fosters valuable professional skills. This toolkit helps you prepare for research, connect with mentors, and make the most of each research experience.  It's a starting point for Discovery For Every Discipline, and the OUR is here to support you throughout your journey!

Becoming part of Carolina's research community

The best way to take advantage of the cutting-edge research, academic opportunities, and high-quality resources available to you at the University of South Carolina is through a faculty-mentored research experience.  We have gathered the steps and resources you need to get connected below. USC is a R1 university with a high level of research activity, so there is Discovery for Every Discipline—no matter your major or academic path.

Write down several areas or topics of research that interest or excite you

These may be specialized areas of your major, an interdisciplinary practice related to your area of study, or something you read or talked about in class. There might be real-life headlines that grab your attention and are being addressed through research at USC. If you are undecided about your major, research can help you explore programs you are considering. Click this box to see the "What Are Your Research Interests" worksheet for thought prompts for this process.  

Explore University of South Carolina faculty whose research aligns with your interests, then prioritize those whose work excites you most

-Talk to current or previous professors (take advantage of office hours!), your advisor, or older students in  your major, for suggestions.   -Use the OUR Faculty Research Data link to search faculty members and their research focus by keywords, campus, college/school, and/or department.

Email faculty to introduce yourself and your interest in their research

Using a professional writing style, share info about yourself and your goals. Tell them succinctly why you are reaching out and what interests you about their research. Finally, ask if they are available to meet to discuss research opportunities they may have. Attach a resume if you have one. Examples of well-written emails are available when you click this linked box.  OUR staff would be happy to review an emial before you hit send, just email our@sc.edu and request an edit!

Be prepared for your initial meeting

Most faculty have information regarding their experiences and research readily available on their website or in their directory page. Review this and write down any questions that come up.  -Consider questions you might have regarding your role on the research team.  -Be prepared to share your schedule and a general number of hours per week you can devote to working on research.

When you have matched with a faculty mentor

 


Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.

©