Do you like learning more about the world around you, taking a hands-on approach to problem-solving, and being a part of something big? Then the Emerging Scholars Program might be for you!
The Emerging Scholars Program offers first- and second-year students an opportunity to engage in research with UA’s award-winning faculty. With support from the program director and a network of current and former Emerging Scholars, you will find a faculty mentor, participate in the research process, and learn how to present your work to other scholars. ESP welcomes students from all majors and disciplines.
Applications are being accepted for the Spring 2025 cohort. They will be accepted on a rolling basis until the course is full.
Why Emerging Scholars
Inside Access
You may already have your next four years mapped out, or you may not know what direction to go just yet. Either way, research supplements your coursework and gives you inside access to the questions, problems, and topics in your chosen (or possible) field of study. What you learn in the lab will help you excel in the classroom as you see the relationship between your lessons and your research.
Engaging in research is a perfect opportunity for many students to get a “sneak peek” into a possible career. Undecided majors can learn more about a potential career path early in their coursework and decide their direction.
Professional Development
Researchers are problem solvers. They ask questions, search for answers, and propose solutions to issues around them. When you become a researcher, you will also develop these skills that will help you in your post-graduate career.
You may be surprised that research plays an important role in many career fields. It is the basis for decision-making, quality control, and sustainable success. With undergraduate research experience under your belt, you will be an attractive candidate for post-graduate education and job opportunities.
Networking Opportunities
At The University of Alabama, you will learn from many professors, but partnering with a faculty mentor is often considered one of the most valuable experiences by our Emerging Scholars.
Many Scholars collaborate with upperclassmen, graduate students, and research professionals, building lasting relationships that offer support, guidance, and connections throughout college and beyond.
Competitive Edge
Students who engage in undergraduate research have an advantage over their peers when it is time to apply to medical and graduate schools. Successful Emerging Scholars do not engage in research as a resume boost – they are passionate about the work they do, and their dedication is an impressive addition to their excellent academic performance.
Hear from Our Emerging Scholars
“I really appreciated the structure of Emerging Scholars and how I was able to tailor it to my own interests and passions without having to be overburdened by additional assignments. I think it’s a great program for anyone wanting to get started in research and I even got a few of my friends to sign up for it next semester.” — Anna Davidson
“I am grateful for UA 155 and 156 for providing me with these opportunities to pursue research and find such a great mentor. It has been such a great opportunity as an undergraduate student looking to become more involved.” — Campbell Jackson
“My research has been an extremely valuable experience and Emerging Scholars is what made it possible. Thank you for all that you do for me and for research at UA. This program has truly been life-changing for my career.” — Patrick Pridemore
“Being an Emerging Scholar and involving myself in undergraduate research this year has been one of the most developing experiences, professionally, academically, and personally in my life.” — Grant Ligon
Program Requirements
The Emerging Scholars Program is a two-semester, two-to-four-elective-credit-hour opportunity for any undergraduate student to get involved with research (application required).
UA 155 (1 credit hour): Learn the fundamentals and methods of research. Explore different research opportunities available for you to participate in on campus as your research experience in UA 156.
UA 156 (1-3 credit hours): Work with a research mentor to do research on campus. Students will work with UA 155/UA 156 instructors to find a research mentor in their chosen field.
Prospective students (interested high school students) are invited to learn more about the application process and apply during the summer before their freshman year.
Incoming freshmen, sophomores, and upcoming juniors can apply for the fall or spring cohort.
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