What is the Summer Sophomore Research Apprenticeship Grant?

The ultimate purpose of the apprenticeship is to allow talented students to learn what research is and how it is conducted within a discipline by participating in actual, cutting-edge research. You will not be a "gopher" in a professor's lab, but will have a significant opportunity to develop research skills and explore the research process while laying the groundwork for future junior and senior research projects. You are responsible for finding a faculty member whose research interests you, but once you find a research mentor, the grant will support your summer research in the form of a $1500-$2000 stipend. In return, you are expected to work approximately 20 hours, or half-time, over a period of ten weeks during the summer. You and your faculty advisor are free to arrange any mutually convenient schedule for the work, provided that all work is completed before the fall academic term commences. In late July, all grant recipients attend a one-day retreat, where they will present their research to fellow apprentices and UW faculty.

How do I find a faculty member to work with?

The best way to find research opportunities is to talk to your professors. What subject are you interested in? Whose research currently intrigues you? Often professors include brief descriptions of their current projects and/or academic specializations on their profiles (accessible on department websites or in the UW online staff directory); this can be a great resources. Don't be afraid to visit professors during their office hours, either. Even if a professor cannot work with you, he or she may direct you to a colleague with similar academic interests who can!

Who is eligible to apply?

You are eligible to apply for a Summer Sophomore Apprenticeship if you are ...

• A sophomore in the L&S Honors Program, or
• A freshman in the L&S Honors Program who will have more than 30 credits after May of the current academic year

• Attend an information workshop in November to learn more about this opportunity.  While attendance at the workshop is NOT required in order to be eligible for the award, it will give you a chance to ask questions and find out more about the program.
• Seek out faculty members within your discipline who you might like to research with.
• Once you have found a mentor, pick up an application form from the Honors Program office. Both you and your faculty mentor must fill out the form and discuss what role you will play in his or her research.
• Submit your application and a copy of your student transcript (unofficial transcripts are acceptable) to the Honors Program office.