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Mentor(s): Carolyn Craig, MBA, CDP, ACCQP

Undergraduate research has gained more attention recently, but there’s still limited information on how it impacts ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓƵs long term. This study explores whether early research experiences—specifically through the LEARN program—help ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓƵs succeed in college and beyond.LEARN introduces first-year STEM ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓƵs to research, mentoring, and academic support. We surveyed alumni from multiple cohorts to understand how the program influenced their academic, personal, and professional growth over time.Many ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓƵs said LEARN boosted their confidence and gave them direction in their academic paths. They gained valuable hands-on research experience, built strong relationships with faculty and peers, and became more motivated and engaged. Several ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓƵs credited the program for helping them get internships, jobs, or admission to grad school.The responses showed that early involvement in research can make a big difference. Students reported feeling more prepared for their future and more connected to their academic and career goals. The long-term benefits of LEARN highlight how important it is to offer research opportunities early in a ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓƵ’s college experience.Overall, this project shows that undergrad research isn’t just helpful;it can be transformative. Supporting programs like LEARN can help ¾Ã¾ÃÈÈÊÓƵs grow personally, academically, and professionally while setting them up for long-term success.