In the Office of Student Engagement and Experiential Learning (OSEEL), we encourage undergraduate research activities that take place in and out of the classrooms, in communities, fields, labs, art studios, on stages, computers and libraries. Undergraduate research is recognized as a high impact practice that gives students skills and credentials that give students a competitive advantage in applying to graduate school or even when pursuing an unrelated career. The critical thinking, problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills that develop through independent undergraduate research are unmatched.
Over 12 years, about 500 students have had the opportunity to participate in the Research Rookies Program. Rookies join a year-long learning community and engage in faculty mentored research, culminating in presenting their work at the Conference on Undergraduate Research and Engagement. Students gain information literacy, research experience, networking opportunities, and peer and faculty mentorship.
This life-changing program is available for incoming first-year and transfer students as well as continuing NIU students. It helps attract amazing students to NIU who often apply to the program before they step foot on campus. Each student who successfully completes the program receives a $500 award. Please help support our efforts to maintain the program for the next 500 students.
Research Rookies
Research Rookies provides undergraduate students, regardless of major, an opportunity to explore their research interests while gaining knowledge and practical research skills needed to effectively conduct professional research. Research Rookies become part of a year-long learning community and engage in one-to-one faculty mentored research activities, culminating in presenting work at the Conference on Undergraduate Research and Engagement. Students gain information literacy competence, research experience, networking and mentorship opportunities, presentation, communication, and critical and analytical skills.
We are committed to expanding our impact in an inclusive way which is evidenced by the Research, Engagement, Academic Diversity Grant, a collaboration with the Division of Research and Innovation Partnerships and the Office of Academic Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. These types of funding opportunities increase representation of undergraduate researchers and add to the research base on social justice and diversity.
Yaileen Velazquez, Biological Sciences
"Participating in the Research Rookies program was a pivotal point in my undergraduate career. As someone who was unfamiliar with the concept of research, this program truly ignited me to have a passion for research. I gained an immense amount of knowledge through the Research Rookies program. Through this program, I learned how to think like a researcher and ended the program with learning how to present my research findings at a research conference. This program also has had a positive impact in my communication skills. Research Rookies oriented me with how to communicate with my faculty mentor and taught me how to perfect my elevator pitch. Through the Research Rookies program, I learned a skillset that I actively use in my current research and networking. Participating in the Research Rookies program granted me an amazing foundation in research and has opened many opportunities for me."
Mereville Muyizere, Biological Sciences
"Research Rookies opened doors to my great experience here at NIU. I had the opportunity to explore more about what
NIU has to offer both in terms of coursework, and student engagement. I started this program during my freshman year with no idea of what research was, and at the end of this experience, I wanted to keep going with research and try to answer many scientific questions that I or others have been curious about. Having something to do outside the classroom such as research gave me a purpose as a student. I was building relationships with professors, graduate students, and other students who have been helping me to prepare more for the real world rather than just absorbing knowledge in the classroom. Through this program, I went to get more research opportunities and presented at many conferences. I highly recommend students to be part of the Research Rookies program because it helps them grow as students and become great critical thinkers in and outside of the academic environment."
Lilliana Campbell, Psychology
"Participating in Research Rookies has significantly shaped my future career and current academic goals. Through the program, I've connected with a mentor in clinical psychology, which is what I aspire to do in the future, this has led to me gaining practical advice and insights into the right career steps. Engaging in Research Rookies has not only expanded my knowledge but also strengthened my resume for future graduate school applications. Beyond academics, the experience has broadened my social circle, allowing me to connect with like-minded individuals and explore diverse research interests. Overall, being part of Research Rookies has been a unique and enriching experience, contributing significantly to my personal and professional growth."
Hannah Havel, Computer Science
"Through the Research Rookies program, my passion for math and computer science has grown. I was able to expand my studies beyond my classwork while collaborating with talented professionals. I currently continue computational math research with physics applications with the support of the McKearn Research Fellowship."
Henry Tomiser, Psychology
"One of the most important benefits of the Research Rookies program is the way it connects students with faculty
mentors. Because my mentor, Dr. Allison Gladfelter, shared her expertise and enthusiasm for her field with me, I found a new path in the field of Speech-Language Pathology."
Allison Gladfelter, Associate Professor, Speech-Language Pathology
"I am so proud that NIU offers undergraduate students one-on-one research mentoring through its Research Rookies program. I have thoroughly enjoyed working directly with all of my Research Rookies. The students’ enthusiasm for research has reinvigorated my own love for it."
