Take some time to think about what you want your UROP to be. Use our self-assessment guide to dig into your goals and interests, and explore the specific type of project you’d like to pursue. And be sure you connect with your academic and peer advisors to be certain that UROP fits with your plans for the academic term and year.  

Do some upfront preparation before you plunge into researching specific UROP opportunities. Develop or refine your resume so that it clearly articulates the value you’ll bring to a project. Then work with the UROP team if you need assistance in identifying labs that might conduct research of interest to you.

Learn more about preparing for UROPs.

There are a range of different ways to explore UROP opportunities. Network with faculty, advisors, coordinators and graduate students, review advertised UROP project listings, or explore department and lab websites. Our office can help you navigate these different channels, and we encourage you to explore multiple options. Once you’ve found an opportunity or opportunities you’re interested in, reach out directly to the lab or department to arrange a meeting.

Read more detailed advice on Finding UROPs.

Schedule conversations with faculty members, mentors, and supervisors at labs and departments where you’re interested in working. This is how you’ll learn what specific opportunities are available and what different faculty members are looking for, and is a chance to introduce yourself and your interests. Remember that the more people you meet, the more you’ll learn about the different opportunities available.

Check out our advice on approaching and meeting with faculty.

Once you and your mentor have agreed to work together, you should download the UROP project plan template so that you can document your proposed project. It should provide specific information about your UROP project, your role in it, along with your personal motivation for participating and how the project aligns with your goals and expectations. This project plan will serve as a roadmap, and will allow the UROP team to support you throughout your journey.  Give yourself plenty of time to complete the proposal and upload it as part of your formal online UROP application.

Before diving into your project, review the UROP checklist to be sure you’ve completed any necessary application or registration requirements, and explore the resources on this site to learn about working with mentors and other ways to make the most of your experience. Our team is here to answer questions and to advise and support you throughout your UROP experience.

See our detailed advice on working with UROP mentors to help maximize your experience!