What are the benefits of being involved in undergraduate research?

There are many benefits to undergraduate research, but the most important are:

Learning, learning, learning.

Most scientists learn by working in a laboratory setting. Information learned in the classroom is more clearly understood and it is more easily remembered once it has been put into practice.

Experiencing science in a real world setting.

The equipment, instrumentation and materials used in research labs are generally more sophisticated, advanced, and of far better quality than those used in lab courses.

Getting the excitement of discovery.

If science is truly your vocation, regardless of any negative results, the moment of discovery will be truly exhilarating. Your results are exclusive. No one has ever seen them before.

Preparing for graduate school.

A graduate degree in a science-related discipline is mostly a research degree. Undergraduate research will not only give you an excellent foundation, but working alongside graduate students and post-doctorates will provide you with a unique opportunity to learn what it will be like.