Research

One of the most rewarding research experiences in my undergraduate time was being awarded the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) from the Office of Undergraduate Research. This fellowship was highly competitive and awarded its participants a $2000 scholarship upon completion. 

 

During my time as a Research Fellow, I was able to design and conduct my own research experiment based on my major. SURF solidified my skills and promoted intrapersonal reflection in regard to my research interests. I was able to explore my interest in multicultural differences for the first time by conducting an analysis of data collected during an economic trust game. I utilized this data to analyze trust-related learning behaviors in relation to racial and ethnic demographics from undergraduate students at UCF. Throughout this experience, I was able to practice data analysis and statistics alongside a Ph.D. student in The Adult Development and Decision Lab. Through this, I was able to gain confidence in my research skills as well as learn about basic statistics commonly used in research. Additionally, SURF required its participants to partake in a Summer Research Showcase, which gave me the opportunity to practice my presentation capabilities. In preparation for the showcase, I created a poster and practiced my presentation in front of other students. Doing so allowed me to become more confident in not only my public speaking but also in my research! 

 

I plan to utilize the newfound strengthened skills to continue to pursue research opportunities and enhance my networking abilities. During the showcase, I met incredible like-minded students and was able to network within and outside of my major. Through this experience, I feel much more prepared to design and conduct research, as well as present it to others. I look forward in participating in the poster showcase in Spring 2024.