Two years ago, third-year College student Shadi Kourosh envisioned a network which would enable University undergraduate students to pursue their own research projects.
Since that time she has expanded her idea to create an Undergraduate Research Network that students can use as a stepping stone in developing their research. The network focuses on both scientific and liberal arts research projects.
"The spirit of the research network is one of inspiration, support and unity for students pursuing creative endeavors throughout the University," Kourosh said. She added that what makes the network unique is that it "came from and was essentially born of the students."
One of the URN's goals is to establish a permanent office for undergraduate research where students can receive guidance and information on national researching grants. The office space that the URN hopes to establish will make opportunities available to students who are looking for a place to learn about research and find answers to their questions.
"Even though we have fellowships, there was a need for more permanent, longstanding commitment for undergraduate research," Faculty Senate Chairman Robert Grainger said
They also want to establish a faculty advising board for undergraduate research in which the benefit would be in fostering the opportunity of faculty mentorship for those who are seeking it.
Lauren Purnell, president of Arts and Sciences Council and vice chair of URN, said the ultimate goal of the network is to "make research more available and more rewarding for undergraduate students."
The three directives of the URN's mission statement are to initiate, develop and share. These directives help students begin the research project and review their progress. The directives also allow students to spread the knowledge they have gained.
Andrew Hayes, a third-year college student and URN executive board member, described the network as "a connection web of students who want to take out all of the broken glass and rusty nails from doing research at the University."
He said this is in reference to the difficulty faced by students who want to take on research projects in various disciplines, and find that there is no centralized authority to provide them with the direction that is essential to successful research.
The nine members of the executive board have made the undergraduate research network their number one priority since their first official meeting in October 2001.
Members of the URN also would like to establish an archive with collective journals that potential researchers could turn for examples and advice. The URN also will create a bulletin board where professors can post research opportunities for undergraduates.
The network now is focusing on holding a symposium in early April to provide an opportunity for undergraduate research students to make presentations. "The intention behind the symposium is not to encourage competitiveness; instead, this event will give students a chance to receive helpful feedback," Kourosh said.
The executive board is scheduled to meet with University President John T. Casteen III.
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