Undergraduate research experience increases retention, engagement at WVU

Undergraduate research opportunities can help students identify their passions and see themselves as academics and researchers while enrolled in their bachelor’s degree programs. The experiences also help build students’ confidence and make them feel they belong at the institution, resulting in higher persistence and completion rates. A recently published report from the Council on Undergraduate Research highlights West Virginia University’s undergraduate research program and its impact on student retention, particularly for students from underrepresented minority backgrounds. The model removes barriers to participation through personalized outreach, compensation for students’ work and staff support.