Stories of growth and discovery: Celebrating undergraduate research

“Research is not just an academic pursuit, but a way to make meaningful contributions to society.” 

Dr. Victoria Fast, PhD, an associate professor in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Calgary, delivered that nugget of inspiration at the Celebration of Undergraduate Research Experiences, held on Sept. 23. 

Co-hosted by the Office of Signature Learning Experiences and the Office of the Vice-President (Research), the event recognized outstanding research conducted by UCalgary undergraduate students over the summer. 

The celebration kicked off with a panel discussion moderated by Fast. It featured four students — Natasha Annor Bediako, Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA); Amber Skye Beaulieu, Program for Undergraduate Research Experiences (PURE); Austin Bender (PURE); and Laiba Nasir (PURE) — who touched on key areas of the undergraduate research experience, including mentorship, the value of mistakes and key learnings from the summer.  

Advice to students: keep an open mind

One common thread of advice from the panellists was to keep an open mind: where you think you want to be may not be where you end up.  

“At first, I didn’t really think about research for most of my undergrad degree. I was interested in so many different things and wasn’t sure where to start,” said Annor Bediako. “My biggest advice is: Don’t restrict yourself. Just jump in. Do some background research on professors and narrow it down from there.” 

Bender agreed, adding “believe in yourself. Don’t let that whisper say, ‘I’m not good enough, I can’t do this.’ Because the fact that you’re in this room, you can all do it already.” 

The students highlighted how curiosity, persistence and mentorship can shape academic journeys. They also shared personal stories of growth, challenges and the transformative impact of their projects, while underscoring the importance of supportive communities.  

Poster presentations demonstrated a variety of research projects

Following the panel, 30 students participated in poster presentations representing their research projects and outcomes, answered questions, and engaged in conversations with their peers and other interested attendees.  

Over the course of the day, Dr. Victoria Guglietti, MA'04, PhD, also an associate professor with Arts and the academic lead for undergraduate student research, wanted to make one thing clear to students interested in participating in research: 

“I know that you’re inspired, but also terrified. In addition to all the phenomenal advice we heard today, know that we are here to support you," Guglietti said. "You’re not alone in your journey or your pursuit of these undergraduate research opportunities."

Top tips for finding a supervisor for your summer research application 

• Do your homework first: read about professors’ research interests and projects before contacting them.
• Start early: give yourself time to explore different opportunities and build relationships.
• Cast a wide net: don’t limit yourself to your own faculty; supervisors in other disciplines may be open to working with you.
• Be curious and open-minded: even if you’re unsure what to study, showing enthusiasm can spark opportunities.
• Be clear and respectful: when reaching out, briefly introduce yourself, explain why you’re interested in their work and ask if they have space for an undergraduate researcher.
• Show initiative: mention any relevant coursework, skills or interests that connect to their research.
• Don’t be afraid to follow up: sometimes professors are busy; a polite reminder is often welcome.
• View it as a conversation, not a transaction: you’re building a mentoring relationship, not just trying to “get a spot.”