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Research student stories
What does the Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity do?
The Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity (OURCA) connects students to on- and off-campus research opportunities. We guide you through the process of finding a faculty mentor, applying for opportunities, and presenting and publishing your research. Throughout the year we offer in-person and online workshops to help you get started in research and develop the skills needed to be successful. Every April we host the annual Undergraduate Symposium.
What is undergraduate research? Accordion Closed
Undergraduate research at NAU takes many forms and occurs in every discipline, from forestry and mechanical engineering to art history and philosophy.
We define undergraduate research as: A process of scholarly inquiry and/or creative activity conducted by undergraduate students, typically in collaboration with mentors, for the purpose of examining, evaluating, creating, and sharing knowledge or works in ways consistent with practices for their relevant discipline(s).
By participating in undergraduate research, students have the opportunity to earn course credit, get paid, present, and publish their research.
Why do undergraduate research? Accordion Closed
By participating in undergraduate research, you are preparing for post graduation plans and gaining experience and knowledge. This hands-on application of classroom knowledge offers many advantages, including:
Graduate and professional school preparation: Gain clarification and preparation for graduate school goals.
Networking: Develop a close working relationship with a research team, who can later provide letters of recommendation and connect you to other opportunities.
Career development: Build confidence in your professional abilities and add valuable experience to your resume.
Transferable skills: Strengthen your written and oral communication, technical skills, critical evaluation, problem-solving, information fluency, and decision-making.
Personal development: Develop an understanding of what you want to do. Learn independence in work and thought, gain greater self-confidence, and feel a sense of accomplishment.
Consider a research, scholarly, or creative project, independently or as part of an existing faculty project, and prepare yourself for success after graduation.
