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ISBN: 9781032701271

November 8, 2024

In the second of three chapters outlining our major findings, we address the communal, personal, and interpersonal elements of undergraduate research. Framed by discussions of social belonging, campus-community belonging, academic belonging, this chapter examines how undergraduate research provides opportunities for new and closer friendships, for a deeper sense of connection to the campus, and for increased visibility and academic agency. Research alumni describe bonding with other researchers during intensive summer programs, gaining an insider view of the university, and overcoming academic imposter syndrome. Addressing the role of mentors and mentoring, we also highlight mentoring practices that undergraduate research alumni found most meaningful for increasing their sense of belonging.  

Discussion Questions

  1. What are the relational factors that distinguish undergraduate research projects from other college activities? What relational factors mark undergraduate research as a high-impact practice? 
  2. What does campus–community and academic belonging look like in your campus culture? How might undergraduate research experiences be responsive to that culture?  
  3. What formal or informal mentoring structures are already in place on your campus that already support or could support undergraduate research?