Benefits of Conducting Research
Academic and societal impact Heading link
Research activities find answers to pressing questions and problems, creating knowledge that benefits social sectors and institutions.
In academia, research:
- Plays a significant role in the production of knowledge that significantly enhances academic fields and our interpretation of the surrounding world.
- Helps advance science by exploring laws and theories that shape our understanding of natural or social phenomena.
- Leads to creative projects that help us appreciate human stories and enrich how we connect, understand, and relate to each other.
In society, research:
- Helps society tackle pressing social problems and concerns that impact the lives of individuals locally and globally.
- Provides a step-by-step process that allows us to pinpoint and understand problems, identify and propose possible solutions, and determine the most effective action plans.
- Serves as a powerful problem-solving tool that improves society’s operations and functions, leading to meaningful social policies.
Student growth and development Heading link
When students participate in research, it positions them for academic, social, and professional success. Research experiences help:
Increase learning and problem-solving skills
- Gain technical and analytical skills that promote academic success and improve performance.
- Strengthen knowledge of fields and help create new knowledge.
- Connect coursework to the world outside, increasing the understanding of concepts and theories.
- Learn by doing as students help solve real problems and become part of the change.
Build faculty networks and peer communities
- Connect with faculty mentors who support growth and development.
- Build community with other student researchers who share similar interests.
Prepare for graduate school and post-grad careers
- Become familiar with the graduate or professional school experience.
- Explore career paths and gain internship credit to include on resumes and to network.
- Develop critical skills and tools to prepare for post-grad life and boost the quality of job or graduate school applications.
Be career ready Heading link
According to the American Association of College and Universities’ How College Contributes to Workforce Success report, 85% of employers surveyed said they were “somewhat” or “much more” likely to consider hiring a candidate with experience in undergraduate research.
View this video from the LAS Career Development and Internships Office to learn about the EIGHT career skills gained from research experiences that impress employers and give a competitive edge when applying to jobs.
Sources Heading link
View the list of sources used to develop this resource.