Some students come to Washington University with a clear idea of what they want to study and what they want to do after earning their degree. Many students wait until the very last moment to declare a major. Most students fall somewhere in between. No matter where you are on this spectrum, the Office of Undergraduate Research can start you on a path to finding a research opportunity.

• The Office of Undergraduate Research hosts monthly happy hours in the fall for students interested in undergraduate research. Highlighting a different department each month, these informal gatherings allow students the opportunity to meet with faculty in their fields as well as upperclassmen already involved in research projects.

• The Washington University Libraries have a thorough online guide on conducting research, as well as research guides for specific subject areas, offering research assistance, subject guides, and useful resources compiled by your friendly WU librarians.

• Faculty and staff in your department (a favorite instructor, the director of undergraduate studies, your advisor) or anyone else in your field will have lots of ideas about new areas of research and current opportunities. Upperclassmen in your dorm, fraternity or sorority can also be a good source of information.

• The Office of Undergraduate Research can help point you in the right direction. Schedule an appointment to come talk with us or come to one of our departmental happy hours.