Research Experience From Day One

There's a reason why Drexel has earned the title of being an R1 university, a ranking given by the Carnegie Classification System to universities with the highest level of research activity. In many institutions, students only engage in hands-on research later in their undergraduate career, but that's not the case at Drexel.

Drexel stands out by opening doors to all students, regardless of year or major, offering the unique opportunity for students to gain invaluable skills as early as their first year. In fact, one program is offered exclusively for first-year students. The STAR (Students Tackling Advanced Research) Scholars Program allows students to do research the summer after their first year. Additionally, any student from any major (not just STEM) can apply. This early access is something that sets Drexel apart, breaking the mold of traditional research pathways for a more inclusive approach.

Another research opportunity for students is the ASURS (Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Research Support) Fund. This program is offered to any student, regardless of year, whose major falls under the College of Arts and Sciences. Both opportunities allow student researchers to present their findings at the end of their respective cohorts, encouraging students to network with peers and faculty. If that isn't enough of an enticement to apply, both programs offer compensation for student researchers and STAR provides scholars with free housing for the duration of the program.

Konnor Seace, an undergraduate physics student, shared his perspective as someone who has benefited from both the STAR Scholars program and ASURS Fund:

"They really pride themselves on getting you started as soon as possible by combining what you learn in the classroom with real-world applications. No matter your skill level, there is a research position where you fit in. There are so many different professors with so many different areas of research that you never really hear about until you go to college."

With paid positions, free housing and early hands-on experiences, Drexel's research programs offer students an invaluable head start in their professional development.