Transferring? Want to do research?

We’ll answer your questions via email (if you include email address). If we don’t have an answer, we’ll do our best to refer you to other resources.

Are you planning to transfer to the University of Washington. Are you interested in getting involved in undergraduate research? Don’t know how to get started or where to direct your questions? Send your questions to us, your peer mentors. Each of us will have different answers, so getting replies from several grad students will help you get the feel for what it might be like for you. Check the frequently asked questions below for quick answers, too.

Q.Where can I get the latest info on research?
A.Follow what many researchers do. Go to http://www.pubmed.gov and search for research articles. Some articles require a paid subscription. Check with library at your college as you may get a free access to articles through its subscription.
Q.Who should be considering Undergraduate research?
A.Students considering medical school, graduate school, or other professional schools should seriously consider Undergraduate research. In many cases, prior research experience is required or at least highly recommended for admission into these types of highly competitive programs.
Q.I am currently a NSCC student interested in research. Can I work in a research laboratory at the UW?
A.Generally, Yes! These arrangements are fairly informal and the policies are determined by the individual laboratory heads. The director of the UW Undergraduate Research Program indicated that there was no restriction that would prevent NSCC students from volunteering or applying for a research internship at UW. Be sure to clearly indicate that you are not currently a UW student or if you plan to transfer to UW in the near future.
Q.Can I get paid to do undergraduate research?
A.Yes! While many research internships are for course credit, other research fellowships and apprenticeships carry a stipend. These programs are usually competitive and require submission of an application. Many of these programs are designed for the summer months when students typically have lighter course loads--and thus, students are expected to conduct research full time or nearly full time. You should also consider that it may be easier to start as a volunteer in a laboratory to get in the door. This is often times the best way to transition into a paid position.
Q.I am worried about the time commitment involved with Undergraduate research. How many hours will I be required to invest?
A.Undergraduate research can be as large or small of a commitment as you like. You decide when to work and how much time to invest--within reason. Most research advisors would expect a commitment of at least 10 hours a week, but probably 15-20 hours a week in the lab is more realistic for students working on a defined research project or an Undergraduate thesis. It is best to plan large rather than small blocks of time. Remember that the more flexible you can be, the more opportunities you will find. Be sure to clearly define your expected time commitment with your research advisor as early as possible.
Q.I am considering getting involved in Undergraduate research after I transfer to the University. How long should I wait after transferring before I start a research internship?
A.Transfer students often face the considerable challenge of how to maximize time efficiency after transferring. It is very likely that a transfer student will only have 2-3 years remaining before completion of their Undergraduate degree. Considering that it takes about 1.5-2 years in most cases to develop a meaningful research experience, it is important to get started as soon as you have adjusted to the new situation (which often takes at least one quarter). It is a great idea to plan your strategy during this first quarter. You may not have the time or energy to carry out research, but you can still be searching for opportunities or browsing the research programs of various faculty members.
Q.Is it true that undergraduate research is a requirement of the Honors Program at UW?
A.Yes, for most of the Undergraduate programs (particularly in the sciences) it appears that there is a formal research component to the Honors program. This most commonly will require an honors thesis at the completion of your Undergraduate research.
Q.I know that I want to do Undergraduate research, but how do I go about identifying a lab or investigator to work for?
A.The best way to approach this is to browse the opportunities advertised through resources like the UW Undergraduate Research Program Website (see web links), or to directly browse the faculty web pages in the Deptartment of interest.
Q.What is the right way to inquire about openings or available positions in a lab?
A.There is no one way--many strategies work, such as email, phone, in person, or through a friend that is currently working in the lab of interest. Email seems to be convenient for all parties as a first approach, but it has the downfall of not being very personal. The key is to be professional, motivated, and persistent. Do not be afraid to follow up if you don't get a response on your first try. Be sure to have a resume or CV available if requested, and possibly a short written statement about your career goals and why you are interested in a research internship.

FAQ

Supported by

In collaboration with