For Undergraduates, Early Research Experience Pays Off

Rahul Kanadia, associate professor of physiology and neurobiology, speaks with biology undergraduates in the Leveraging Mentoring and Early Research to Advance Academic Potential (LEAP) program in the Gant Building on March 18, 2021. (Bri Diaz/UConn Photo)

Participating in research is one of the most valuable experiences that a student can have, however getting started can seem like a daunting process, especially for freshman and sophomores who are looking to be involved as early as possible but are not sure if they have the required qualifications or knowledge.

When is the right time to participate in research? Many students are inclined to believe that such opportunities are only made available to juniors and seniors and do not reach out to their community to explore their interest in research. However, this experience is much more attainable for underclassmen than many think. Participating in research inspires the development of innumerable transferable skills that might be hard to acquire especially in one’s first years of college. It allows for the cultivation of countless connections with professors and student peers alike and inspires the confidence and motivation to pursue one’s genuine academic interests. Learn how UConn students have taken advantage of the opportunities offered to them through the UConn undergraduate research experience programs.

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By Katarzyna Paszek
Katarzyna Paszek