Undergraduate research is central to the overall goals and priorities of the academic program at Trinity University. Our mission to provide majors with a thorough understanding of principles and processes is accomplished not only through classroom and laboratory study, but through engagement of students in active research. Summer research allows students to focus on projects without competing attention of coursework and extracurricular activities. For field-based studies, the summer period affords time for travel to and extended periods of study at the project location. Summer research experiences allow students to develop a more complete picture of life in research and academia. Most summer students continue their research throughout the year, providing their peers with a model for how to conduct investigations. A strong sense of community among students and faculty built during the summer continues into the academic year. Students get to know professors beyond their roles as classroom and laboratory teachers; they appreciate faculty as researchers, colleagues, and people with broader interests and concerns. Many faculty-student relationships forged within the Trinity community have resulted in long-term collaborations and friendships. Finally, our summer research program has played a critical role in shaping what and how we teach during the academic year. We pioneer approaches during the summer that are often developed into teaching laboratory experiences.
In 2008, the Summer Research Program is expected to involve nearly 140 students from Trinity and other institutions. Students work full-time on research projects under direct supervision by faculty. In most cases, students receive a stipend and free housing. Some students also receive one tuition credit free of charge in order to have their research experience listed on their transcript. The summer research experience culminates in a day-long symposium where students present their research results in oral or poster presentations. After the symposium, students and faculty celebrate their accomplishments with a banquet.