h3. Name of Concept: Undergraduate Research Program


h3. Overview  of Idea:


An undergraduate research program which provided a structure would  enhance the research experience for the student involved. I envision an  online listing of all available research positions, a regular meeting of  undergraduate researchers to present their work, and some form of  guidance (seminars?) on the possibilities of research. Undergraduate  research does exist at RIT but, I believe there is limited structure in  place to train students to be skilled researchers. If RIT is to become a  "Respected Research and Scholarship University" we need to train our  students in the skills needed.

h3. How  this idea leverages current areas of RIT expertise:

Undergraduate research is already present at RIT through the co-op  program and through assistantships. But, the research is performed in a  fragmented way which does not have any continuity from one lab to the  next. By taking the existing approach to undergraduate research and  cultivating an environment which aims to produce skilled researchers RIT  can begin to produce more undergraduates who are prepared for graduate  studies or jobs in highly competitive industries.

h3. Main RIT on-campus champion(s) for this idea:

VP for Research

h3. Off-campus champion(s) for this idea:

Companies interested in highly skilled employees


h3. Are  you aware of another university that is working on a similar idea? If  yes, which one?

RICE University (Rice Undergraduate Scholars Program)

h3. How  you envision this idea advancing RIT's national or global stature in an  important or emerging field:

By producing more highly skilled graduates the RIT Alumni network  will be able to reach more prominent positions. This will enhance RIT's  stature and enhance its ability to gain access to opportunities in the  future.

h3. Why  you believe RIT has a unique opportunity or an ability to differentiate  itself through this idea:

This may not make RIT unique but, without it we will fall behind the  elite universities in the nation.
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