Become Career Ready through Research & Fellowships

Research can be broadly defined as the systematic investigation of data and other materials that leads to the creation of new knowledge and understandings. Research takes place across all majors and fields of study at UConn and beyond. Students who plan to pursue graduate school are typically more inclined to pursue research, but it’s a great endeavor for all students and allows them to experience what they are learning in their class applied in the research setting.

Examples of how students developed or enhanced their competencies through research & fellowships:

  • Aayla built their career & self-development competency by arranging time with their advisor to map out a career and professional development plan focused on applying for research fellowships.
  • José improved his communication competency by presenting his research at the monthly colloquium held by his department.
  • Sumadrita enhanced her critical thinking competency by reviewing and analyzing her research survey questions with a mentor to look for any personal biases that could be reflected in her questions.
  • Qing improved their equity & inclusion competency by attending a workshop at the Center for Career Development on writing diversity statements to learn more about the strong emphasis on diversity when applying for fellowships.

Feel free to schedule a meeting with a Career Coach in the Center for Career Development or talk to another trusted faculty or staff member on campus; maybe someone you’ve already connected with around career. The entire campus community is committed to your success-all you need to do is ask!

Do you have an example of a career-readiness competency that you have gained or enhanced? (Career & Self Development, Communication, Critical Thinking, Equity & Inclusion, Leadership, Professionalism, Teamwork, Technology)

We would love to hear your story. Please complete the Competency Intake form.

Sharing your competency development inspires other students to think about where and how they can gain competencies within and beyond UConn, and can prepare you for future interview questions when employers ask for examples about skills you have developed.