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Undergraduate Research

Getting Started in Research

Undergraduate students have the unique opportunity to engage in a diverse array of research and scholarly activities with award-winning faculty.  Engaging in research not only deepens academic understanding but also cultivates critical career competencies—such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and analytical thinking—that are highly valued by today’s employers.  The Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) is here to help you find research connections and activities that will engage and challenge you and prepare you for a bright future.  

Becoming part of Carolina's research community

The best way to take advantage of the cutting-edge research, academic opportunities, and high-quality resources available to you at the University of South Carolina is through a faculty-mentored research experience.  We have gathered the steps and resources you need to get connected below.  Reach out to the OUR with questions or to schedule an appointment with a member of our team.  

These steps are outlined in more detail in our "Want to Get Involved in Research" worksheet.  All of the worksheets linked on this page plus a helpful Getting Started video are available in the Getting Started in Research Toolkit.

 

When you have matched with a faculty mentor:

 

If you need help at any step of this process, we are here for you! 

In addition to the information on this page, the Getting Started Toolkit will be helpful to you.  In the toolkit you will find a short video with information helpful in this stage of securing a research opportunity.  Please take a few moments to watch the video for answers to some of your questions. 
 
The OUR is available via email and offers individualized Research Consultations to help you navigate your USC research experience.  For summer appointments, please email us at our@sc.edu to schedule your meeting.  


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