11/02/11 ema

HAYS, Kan. -- Undergraduate students at Fort Hays State University have the chance to learn about opportunities to become involved with research at the Undergraduate Research Experience Fair from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 30, in the Sunset Lounge of the Memorial Union.

The fair will highlight current undergraduate research and creative activities at FHSU, promote opportunities available to undergraduates, and allow students to learn about research and creative activities in the various departments.

"Students who are engaged in scholarly activities as undergraduates have improved critical thinking and problem-solving skills and are more marketable for graduate programs and employment," said Leslie Paige, grants facilitator and graduate school coordinator. "This type of experience enhances and extends student learning. Working with a faculty mentor also helps undergraduates clarify their career goals."

Research experiences at FHSU take place in laboratories, libraries, art and music studios, outdoors, and in the community. All academic areas engage in scholarly activity with the goal of creating new knowledge or developing new examples of human expression. Undergraduates have opportunities to work with faculty who are recognized experts in their fields.

"It may help to plant the seed of research within the minds of students who might not have considered it otherwise," said Paige. "FHSU undergraduate students will be able to see what is available and be able to explore their interests. Participating in undergraduate research is high-quality learning at its best."

The Undergraduate Research Experience initiative is sponsored by the Office of Scholarship and Sponsored Projects and the Graduate School. For more information, contact Paige at 785-628-4349 or lpaige@fhsu.edu.