The Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) First-year Research Experience (FyRE) Program aims to match first-year students with undergraduate researcher peer mentors who are conducting research in similar fields of study. The year-long program stimulates a research culture among first-year students through participation in peer advising sessions, research-related workshops, and establishing research readiness. As mentees, program participants are guided and supported by their peer mentors in their personal and professional growth and development, thereby anchoring new students to the university more firmly.

Eligibility, Application Process, and Requirements

Currently enrolled first-year undergraduate students are eligible for consideration.

Students are required to submit the following as part of their application package:

  1. One-page personal statement detailing their interest in (and expectations from) the program, general research interests, and career aspirations and goals. For instructions, please peruse OUR’s one-page personal statement sample.
  2. Curriculum Vitae (CV). For instructions, please view the following samples:
Submit your Application

Participants are expected to meet the requirements listed below:

  1. Schedule a research advising meeting with OUR’s research advisor
  2. Attend biweekly (once every two weeks) peer advising sessions with their peer mentor
  3. Complete OUR’s Research Skills Academy
  4. Attend OUR’s triannual research symposia
  5. Complete deliverables within program deadlines