​Relevance:  Shifting from being a consumer of knowledge produced by others to a producer of knowledge in your own right can deepen your understanding of the research methods and approaches commonly used in your fields of interest and the limitations of these methods and approaches. It can provide new perspectives on the scholarly work you encounter in your courses.

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Professional Development:  Research by its very nature involves grappling with uncertainty, coping with unexpected setbacks, and making multiple attempts to resolve or address problems. This experience can help to cultivate persistence and habits of mind that will be useful to you throughout your career (regardless of whether it ultimately involves research) and in life more generally.

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Relationships & Mentorship:  Undergraduates conducting longer-term research projects typically work under the supervision of one or more expert researchers who provide ongoing guidance and feedback. One of the significant benefits of participating in a sustained research project as an undergraduate is precisely this opportunity to work in dialogue with and learn from a more seasoned researcher. Frequently, more senior researchers become mentors to undergraduate researchers with whom they work, serving not only as an advisors regarding immediate questions related to research but also as a source of guidance regarding graduate school and career possibilities.

Research frequently provides opportunities to connect with fellow undergraduates excited by the process of exploration and discovery; for instance, you might work on a research team along with other undergraduates, or you might participate in an undergraduate research program that provides regular opportunities for participating students to meet and discuss their experiences.