Research is one of those buzzwords that can really be anything, depending on the context. It can be a surface-level Google search if you are debating your friends, a made-up argument if you’re fighting someone on Twitter, or it can be a long process with the mission to build new understanding. That last definition is what I will be exploring in a little more detail — what is academic research?
What is research?
Research is helping understand or discover something new. That’s very broad! And that’s the beauty of it — there are very few limitations as to “what is research”. Research can mean anything from inventing a new medical drug, to finding a new human sociological response, to developing new code or algorithm. It can be as big and groundbreaking as creating a new subatomic particle, or something smaller, yet still significant, like exploring new ways to improve public infrastructure. It can be anything, really, depending on the area of interest!
What’s the appeal?
From idealists to realists, research is great for anyone. Personally, aside from academic interest, I really love that truly anyone can help change the world. All research, especially here at U-M, holds importance for our future. Even if you’re doing something small (for example, I’ve been looking through a microscope for the right shade of purple for the better part of the past semester), it is vital to the process. For me it finally feels like I’m doing something that matters in academia, even if it seems insignificant. It’s really not!
The experience, network, and opportunities you can gain through research are insane. Firstly, you can learn about what really interests you — it’s great for any undecided majors, but also for those who think they’re sure they’re passionate about something. You can learn a lot, in a more applied manner than in typical classes, and probably earlier. I’m only in my introductory physics classes, and yet I already know some basics of quantum mechanics because of my research!
Doing research as an undergrad looks amazing on a resume and it makes you stand out from others, whether you want to apply to a graduate school, a program abroad, or an internship. I highly recommend looking into research — and by joining MRADS, you’re guaranteed to find a research opportunity in your very first semester.
What could I be doing?
It truly depends on your interests! I am a physics major and I am currently helping in material science research regarding 2D magnets and semiconductors. I prepare chips, exfoliate monolayers, and then search for them, all the while learning more theory on the side. Other physics projects can involve more theory (reading, analyzing, writing) or more engineering (creating, building, testing), or coding (analyzing, programming, machine learning). And that’s just physics!
There are so many opportunities at U-M that you’re almost assured to find something that’d match your interests, whether it’s biochemistry or psychology or social sciences. There are research projects requiring analyzing interviews or survey answers, writing papers, coding or engineering, laboratory work — anything. And if it’s a wrong pick for you? Don’t worry, and talk to your project instructor (PI). They will find a way to help you work on something you’re passionate about.
What if I have no research experience?
All UROP/MRADS research is geared towards undergraduates. There are different levels of engagement and upfront requirements, but the sheer amount of possible research projects makes it possible to find something you’re passionate about and matches your skillset. Besides, all MRADS/UROP projects rely on PIs to guide students through the research process. They can both help with things like writing an abstract for your ALA104 class, and for introducing you to your requirements. Researchers who are accepting freshmen are very understanding and provide a lot of support. If you meet at least most of the requirements they’re looking for, you are probably good to go!
I hope to see you in MRADS! Go Blue!
