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Tim Tryjankowski is program coordinator of the Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowship in the Office of Undergraduate Education.
What is the Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowship?
The center helps serve as a starting point for undergraduates
interested in conducting research while completing their degrees at
UB. Many students do find their own research niche, often within their
academic department. Some, although interested in research, never act on
these opportunities for a variety of reasons. This office will reach out
to all UB undergraduates to ensure they are aware of the many research
opportunities available to them.
Why was the center created?
I'd have to say demand, to
some extent. I am continually impressed by the academically talented
high school students who are applying to, and enrolling in, UB. In their
college-selection process, they are demanding the most from their
undergraduate experience. These high-achieving students are looking to
make the most of their undergraduate years in order to be as
well-prepared as possible for graduate-school applications and job
searches. The Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowship is a
direct response to the "additional opportunities" these talented
students expect and demand from their collegiate experience. The office
serves in several capacities: It helps attract prospective students who
are interested in pursuing research; assists current UB students and
helps in retention; and finally, continues to benefit students after
graduation, since the experiences students have had helps them as they
pursue graduate studies and job opportunities.
How do you define research—does it include "creative
activity," like dance, music or art?
Yes, not all research is
done in the laboratory. The social sciences, theater and the arts all
expose students to wonderful learning experiences beyond the classroom.
Any opportunity to test a theory or explore possibilities, whether in a
lab, on a stage or in the driver's seat of a "green" snowmobile, is a
research/creative work.
What are the benefits to undergraduates of participating in
research projects?
Students work closely with faculty mentors,
graduate students and their peers as they test their curiosities. That
is one benefit. Preparing oneself for graduate study, building a strong
résumé for scholarship application or job searches is another. For some,
the benefit is the opportunity to sample a particular field and find out
if it is the right career path.
Does the center plan to offer
any workshops to train students to conduct research?
Yes, our
early plans call for a series of workshops that will arm students with the basics
necessary to be prepared researchers as they contact faculty regarding
their ambitions. Workshops are being created that will introduce and
sharpen basic skills. Our Web site (the site will "go live" in mid to
late September at http://www.cur.buffalo.edu) will list previous and ongoing undergraduate research
endeavors so that students can be aware of what other undergrads have
been involved in here on campus.
Are there any special events or programs planned for the coming
academic year?
Last April, the Office of the President and the
Office of the Provost invited undergraduate researchers to be a part of the
Celebration of Academic Excellence. Fifteen undergraduate researchers
were recognized during the formal program, and a total of 100 student
projects were featured during a poster session prior to that ceremony.
It was a wonderful day, and great recognition for the students and their
mentors. A similar showcase is being planed for April 20, 2006.
Parameters of the poster event will be shared with students and academic
departments as they are solidified.
What question do you wish I had asked, and how would you have
answered it?
Who is behind this successful endeavor? Faculty.
None of these opportunities would be possible without dedicated, caring
mentors. Faculty members will be recognized for their involvement with
undergraduate research at every opportunity. These projects are not only
beneficial to the students, but also to the mentors. The sharing of
ideas, the fresh ways of approaching topics, the new angles on old
theories can push these works forward. It is amazing to see so many
successes across our academic disciplines. They have been going on for
years. I'm thrilled to be able to assist in the coordination of these
unique learning experiences.