Research is reachable for everyone

If the prospect of writing proposals, working with professors or compiling and publishing results sounds daunting to you, consider this: about 80 percent of all undergraduates become involved in research or scholarship during their four years at Hopkins.

"We're the first research institution in North America ... and arguably one of the best," said Gary Ostrander, Vice Dean for Research and Graduate Education. "I'd like to think that part of the reason students come to Hopkins is the benefit of being in a research environment."

Whether or not you plan a career in research, the experience can open doorways, establish connections, provide invaluable skills and offer development in analytical thinking. Ostrander stressed that any interested student can find research opportunities -- regardless of his or her major.

"Discipline has no bearing," said Ostrander. "If you want to get immersed [in your field] and create new knowledge, you should at least consider [undergraduate research]."

Because research in the biological and natural sciences requires the most funding and sees the most "activity," it offers more immediate student positions, according to Ostrander. But he stresses that research in the humanities and social sciences is not only just as important, but also just as possible. Humanities research is often more conducive to independent student work under faculty guidance, and usually requires less funding than biology and natural science research, which often requires expensive equipment and multiple paid positions.

If you're still intimidated by the word "research," it is important to note that 80 percent of undergraduates, while undoubtedly bright and ambitious, are not all self-starting genuises. Very few students propose independent projects or seek funding on their own, according to Ostrander. Most students get research experience by either working with a faculty member or using faculty support and guidance to assist them in applying to undergraduate research programs, which supply funding for short-term research projects.

Because of their research experience and expertise, faculty members are your first and most important resource. Faculty sponsorship is not only a requirement for academic credit, but an invaluable source of guidance in helping you navigate through the field and present your ideas to undergraduate research programs.

This does require that you actually talk to your professors; if you're used to seeing your prof. as just a talking head in front of a chalkboard, you might have to adjust your mindset. Professors are passionate about their field of study, and appreciate nothing more than genuine student interest.

"Every one of our faculty members is hired ... for scholarship and research," said Ostrander.

If you're not sure who to approach with your interests, ask you departmental advisor about current faculty projects in your major. Or log on to Hopkins' Faculty Research Index at http://www.jhu.edu/ksas/website/research, where you can search by subject to find professors with your interests. If you can't find anyone in your specific field of study, contact the closest match; he or she could likely direct you to a colleague in one of Hopkins other affiliated institutions who knows more about your interests.

What do professors look for in prospective student assistants? According to Ostrander, who selects student assistants for his research in coral reef ecosystems and chemical carcinogenesis, most professors seek students who aren't just looking to pad their resumes. Because a long-term commitment is usually required, professors want students who are serious about the research and genuinely interested in helping generate results.

Before approaching faculty members for positions or sponsorship, first make sure you have formulated you ideas, are well-read on your topic and are up-to-speed on the professor's own research interests and publications.

If you are interested in a shorter-term research project, consider applying to a summer or semester-long program. Many such programs offer stipends or even housing, and some give students the opportunity to present or publish their results.

Since many programs are highly selective, you should still seek faculty guidance before submitting applications. A faculty member with expertise in your proposed area of research can help you hash out a winning proposal and present your ideas in the best way possible. Since programs want to be sure that granted funds will be used wisely and efficiently, they will look for applications proposing practical goals that fit into time and budget constraints.

While research is almost a prerequisite for certain graduate programs in the natural and biological sciences, it can be just as valuable for students in all disciplines. Dr. Elaine Hoagland, National Executive Officer of the Council on Undergraduate Research, an organization that promotes collaborative research between students and faculty, feels research experience offers far more than just resume material.

"Research is essential in all fields," said Hoagland. "Students should be doing "real research' ... developing brand new information and using information and ideas to ... make new discoveries."

According to Ostrander, research experiences, and the results and relationships they produce, are perhaps what graduates remember most about their Hopkins careers.

"Alumni love the fact that they got to work with a faculty member," said Ostrander. "If they made a discovery ... [or] a little contribution, they carry it with them the rest of their lives."