FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How is TURC different from other undergraduate research programs?
The Tulsa
Undergraduate Research Challenge is a selective program that offers
undergraduate students an opportunity to conduct mentored research with
nationally recognized university professors and develops well-rounded,
socially-responsible graduates.
This distinctive undergraduate research program has attracted national attention owing to its unique integration of scholarship and service. TURC seeks to create leaders in scholarship, research and public life.
How is TURC different from other undergraduate research programs?
TURC is more than a mentored research opportunity. TURC draws its strength from three components: scholarship, research and service. TURC students not only learn research skills they also develop as researchers who are socially responsible and civically engaged.
How does TURC fit in with my degree program?
TURC research enhances academic experience by adding a rich dimension outside standard coursework. The research can energize, deepen and locate the nexus between the project and related studies occasionally leading to new connections. TURC research has engendered interests that have formed the basis for further development in graduate studies.
What are the requirements for participation in the TURC program?
Consideration for the summer research stipend is based upon successful
application to TURC and evaluation of the proposal; it may be restricted by
funding. Application procedures vary by college.
What is required to meet the research requirement for the program?
Just as research methods
differ by discipline, the programs for mentored research differ by
department and college. TURC has developed to support these differences and
the program has acquired a certain amount of flexibility.
Students are matched with professors who are doing research in areas related to the topic the student wants to research. Based on the type of topic selected, the professor and the student create a research plan for the student. The professor oversees the student's research and provides assistance to the student in a one-on-one mentoring environment.
Who determines my research project?
Ideally the student’s research is “mentor-driven.” That is, students follow the lead of their advisors when undertaking research projects. Occasionally TURC students drive their own research projects with assistance from faculty mentors.
What is the goal of my research?
Goals of such research may be to deliver papers at academic conferences, to produce publishable articles, or to initiate meaningful community projects. In disciplines in which publications are not the standard of scholarship, other criteria may be used (e.g., a musical composition, an art exhibit).
What research are students conducting?
Students can participate in research in any area of study that meets program
criteria and that their faculty mentor approves. Research can be in
areas such as computer forensics, ethnomusicology,
What is required to meet the service requirement for the program?
TURC has developed a flexible program for the creation of service projects. TURC students have created computer networks at local middle schools and elder citizen homes. They are tutors and mentors in low-resourced public schools. They work with Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers and Sisters.
Students participate in service projects of their choosing. They can arrange this with their faculty mentors, independently, or through Nona Charleston, associate director of TURC. Students who would like to volunteer as a group with other TURC students can contact Nona Charleston.
Are TURC students eligible for financial assistance?
The TURC summer stipend that supports
the student researcher on campus for either six or ten weeks to pursue their
approved research project is not awarded as financial aid.
No. Competing for scholarships is neither the program’s primary goal nor
fitting for every TURC student. But given the program’s inherent components,
applying for nationally competitive scholarships has been a natural
progression for many TURC students
Are students funded with a summer research stipend?
Students can be funded for the summer. The application process is different for each of the three colleges and a student is generally required to draft a proposal for research and service and support the proposal with an agreement of support from a professor who agrees to supervise the project. A sample of academic writing and a transcript may be required. The application deadlines are specific for the colleges.
Didn't find the answer to your question?
Please contact Nona Charleston:
phone: (918) 631-3511
email:
nona-charleston@utulsa.edu
She will be happy to answer you questions and
provide you with additional information about the TURC program.