Parent Talk: Undergraduate research prepares students for scholarships, professions

By Laurie Mellas, Parent Relations Office, Senior Program Manager
A "well-rounded" education is assured with substantial effort put forth by faculty, staff and students. In addition to the hundreds of student organizations offering "life experiences," UNM is widely known in academic circles for providing hands-on research opportunities for students as early as freshman year.
Marla Wyche-Hall of UNM's University College notes that regardless of a student's area of interest, whether theater or mathematics, they have an opportunity to shine during the University College's Research Quest (for freshman only) and the Undergraduate Research and Creativity Conference. Both events motivate students to engage in peer-reviewed research.

"Participating in research projects and conferences could lead to work opportunities, advanced research opportunities, graduate school possibilities, and offers great networking with faculty and staff on campus and beyond," Wyche-Hall said, noting that the undergraduate conference open to all students is Wednesday, April 7. The deadline to register is March 12 by 2 p.m. Visit http://explore.unm.edu/ for more information.
Gaining research experience is critical to earning prestigious scholarships, says Kiyoko Simmons, University College's scholarship coordinator, nothing that students who want to P.A.S.S. the test of time while in college should immerse themselves in (P)rofessional, (A)cademic (S)ervice and (S)ocial organizations.

"Students think of research as the hard sciences, math and the like, but let's evoke more thought about it," Wyche-Hall says. "Participating in a research experience helps the student gain transferable skills, adding to their professional toolbox for life at UNM and beyond."

Judges look for the same kinds of skills employers do. How well does the student organize and present thoughts? When presenting information, is he sensitive to those outside his discipline? Was she successful in getting her point across?

Freshman might think it's a hassle, but if led to the water, they will drink, says Wyche-Hall, and once they become participants, they get hooked. She is contacted throughout the year by students looking to present new work or who want to fine tune past projects to take them to the next level.

Today's student has diverse interests and will make the effort to double major. An incoming student attending the recent Parent Talk plans to pursue degrees in mathematics and theatre.

Participation in the research conferences maximizes a student's experience at the university and is a powerful addition to a student's resume and academic vitae, Wyche-Hall says.

Students applying for the world's most prestigious scholarships must demonstrate an interest and are then nominated by the university, Simmons says. UNM selects students to put forward for consideration by national and international organizations.

Students are encouraged to investigate potential research and scholarship opportunities as early as possible during the school year in order to start building a compelling application.

The next Parent Talk Wednesday, March 3, 6-7 p.m. in the Dean of Students Conference Room, Student Services Building, second floor, features UNM faculty John Benevidez, Anderson School of Management, and Mary Bowannie, Native American Studies. Students' relationships with UNM professors are key to accessing research, scholarships, internships and graduate school. Learn how students can use office hours effectively, ask for a letter of recommendation and get the help they need to succeed in the classroom.