Becoming a Researcher

A 7-week course (currently USU 1045, becoming USU 2110 in Fall 2026) focused on building student confidence and knowledge around the general practices of research and specific opportunities here at USU.

Becoming a Researcher is a Habits of Mind course focused on building student confidence and knowledge around the general practices of research and specific opportunities here at USU. It is based on the “Entering Research” curriculum developed at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Institute for Science Education and Community Engagement. It is a seven-week, one credit, P/F course that meets twice a week for an hour at a time. After the pilot offering of the course in fall 2025, students reported significant gains in their self-concept as researchers, and most students had, by the end of the course, found opportunities to begin their engagement in research beyond the classroom.

graph showing the student responses to the evaluation question of I understand enough about faculty, the institutional culture of undergraduate research, and opportunities available at USU taht I feel confident I can navigate making first contact with a potential research mentor

Of the 25 students in the pilot course, 100% felt they had developed a strong understanding of USU's research landscape. By contrast, at the outset of the course only 27% of the students reported feeling very confident that they had the skills and background needed to participate in research as an undergraduate.

Participants

  • Develop researcher identity and self-efficacy
  • Discover a range of resources and opportunities for hands-on learning and undergraduate research at Utah State
  • Meet and build a network of peers also curious about research
  • Connect with a range of faculty guests who are active undergraduate research mentors
  • Learn broadly applicable research skills and understandings

All majors, including pre-majors are encouraged to join and benefit from this fun, participatory course.

Why do Undergraduate Research? Participants explain their motivations

Building Resilience

What interests me about doing research is the opportunity to grow through persistence. I've struggled with failure in the past, but I’m learning that research isn’t about finding the perfect answer and getting everything right on the first try. It's about the process, learning from mistakes, and continuing to move forward. I also wanted to challenge myself by trying something new and working on a big project that I can be proud of. Plus, gaining research experience is something that really stands out on a résumé and can make me stand out from other candidates.

Developing Curiosity

I like the idea of having this question I am really interested in and then being able to do the work to answer it. It feels more meaningful to explore, research, and reason through it rather than just accepting someone else's conclusion. The thought of finding an answer that takes my personal experience and work into account is really exciting for me. I also want to go to medical school and research is a big part of getting in.

Contributing to the World

There is so much to learn, discover, experience, and explore during our time on this earth. I am extremely inspired by the works and art of nature and think we can learn the most from it. Nature provides everything for us and we need to take care of it in return. I am very interested in research about sustainable living methods and practices. I would love to contribute to a better world and healthier environment through my own research and work someday.