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There are multiple personal and professional skills which are developed through engaging in undergraduate research. Using work by Showman, Cat, Cook, Holloway, and Wittman (2013), this presentation will focus on cultivating the skills of creativity, judgment, communication, organization, and persistence. Each of these skills will be defined and then personal examples of how each has been developed via research will be explored. To be creative requires thinking uniquely, while maintaining originality. Creativity is a key element to the beginning stages of the research process used to brainstorm a variety of topic ideas. Judgment is particularly important in order to decide when to ask for help when obstacles arise. In addition, having sound judgment is a crucial component when organizing and planning the methodology section of the research project. Similarly, having good judgment is essential when deciding which variables should be assessed. Regular communication between undergraduate researchers and a faculty mentor throughout the research process is an essential component of a successful research project. When an undergraduate student feels comfortable asking a mentor questions, it can lead to an increased understanding of knowledge of the respected field of study as stated in Showman, Cat, Cook, Holloway, and Wittman (2013). Organization is a skill that is necessary for many parts of the research process including saving notes and data. Time management for the researcher will be much easier with an organized plan and schedule. Showman, Cat, Cook, Holloway, and Wittman (2013) describe the skill of persistence as the drive to never give up. This trait is the backbone of being a researcher because at times rejection and failure will occur throughout the process. Being able to endure and overcome roadblocks in the research process will be a necessity to produce successful research. Having a well-rounded set of attributes as an undergraduate researcher will be extremely beneficial to future successes in the field. We will continue to explore some of the main personal and professional skills developed throughout the research process.
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