Developing as a Researcher
Whether you’re wondering if research is right for you or starting a new research position, taking time to reflect on where you’ve been and where you’re going can help set you up for success. Using a tool like our Undergraduate Research Individual Development Plan (IDP) can help guide your path through research no matter what stage of the process you’re in.
The IDP will prompt you to reflect on the topics listed below and more. For the topics below, we have provided additional questions to help guide your thinking even further.
Identity as a Researcher
Your perspective as an undergraduate researcher is valuable. As a product of your lived experiences, what strengths do you bring into the research setting? You may wish to consider:
- Any relevant coursework or technical background you have (if none, that’s ok!).
- Positions in which you demonstrated commitment, adaptability, or resilience.
- Ways you have developed communication, time management, or administrative skills.
Finding a research environment that supports your personal growth in addition to your professional development is critical to your success. Reflect on the following in evaluating whether a research group is a good fit.
- Do you feel that you and your goals are respected and supported within the research group?
- Does your mentor take time to get to know you as a person beyond your research efforts?
- Is there an inclusive atmosphere toward undergraduates in group activities such as team meetings and social events?
Defining Your Interests
Think about what interests you most. This does not have to be what you do for the rest of your life—it’s a hypothesis that your research experience will test.
- How do your interests connect to life experiences, coursework, readings, or seminars attended?
- What inspires you about research in your chosen field? Are there any specific areas you hope to explore?
- Which research groups or programs best align with your stated interests?
Once you’ve identified potential mentors, be prepared to meet with them and answer the following questions.
- What about the research group interests you and why? This is a great place to bring in details from your background reading.
- What specific projects appeal to you? Reviewing the team’s website ahead of time can give you a sense of ongoing work.
- How have you explored the field? Engaging in relevant RSOs and departmental events are great ways to gain exposure to a topic before committing to a research group.
Goal Setting
Setting goals can give you a sense of purpose and direction. Consider how undergraduate research could help you reach your long-term educational and career goals.
- Describe your educational goals (bachelor’s degree, graduate school, professional school, et cetera).
- What is your desired career? This can be as broad as an industry or as specific as a job title, and you reserve the right to change your mind!
- How do you see research supporting your educational and/or career goals? Are there any particular skills you hope to gain?
Research can be more motivating when you have a specific, short-term goal in mind. You may wish to consider the following opportunities and/or bring in your own ideas.
Mentorship Planning
A good mentor can make you excited about any topic. Who you work with can be more important than what you work on. Take some time to critically evaluate:
- The qualities you value in a mentor and how you can identify these characteristics.
- Strengths or areas for improvement in past mentorship relationships.
- The style of mentorship that would best facilitate your research experience.
Once you’ve joined a research group, it’s important to establish mutual expectations for research progress, accountability, and mentorship. Discuss the following with your mentor(s).
- How will you communicate with your mentor(s)? How often will you meet to discuss research milestones and challenges?
- What will you contribute to the project or broader research objectives? Be as specific as possible. How will your mentor guide you?
- How can your mentor(s) best help you succeed? This could include anything from group practices to individualized guidance.
Revisit Your IDP Quarterly
Your IDP should be a living document. With every new experience, your goals and interests may shift and change.
- Check-in with yourself
Every quarter, revisit what you’ve written and update sections to reflect your current thoughts. - Check-in with a mentor
Review your IDP with your mentor(s) every quarter and discuss how things are going and what could be better. Below we’ve included a Mentor Follow-Up form developed to help guide this conversation.
Mentor Follow-Up Form
This quick form allows students and mentors to check in on project status, research support, and any other updates.