Student Projects
We believe students “grow by doing” through undergraduate research and creative projects, community-engaged work, internships, student athletics and activities, and other integrative, hands-on work.
What is the benefit of project-based work for students?
Doing projects offers a student experience beyond just declaring a major. Through project-based work, students graduate with more than just a diploma and a transcript of classes. Students will leave the college and announce to the world: “Look what I’ve done!”
Additionally, working on projects emphasizes the connections between people—faculty, staff, other students, community partners, alumni—and among different disciplines and activities, creating a “whole” and unique experience for each student.
What constitutes a “project”?
Projects come in all shapes and sizes, from the more traditional to the wildly experimental. They are found not only embedded in single courses but also extending over several semesters, both inside and outside the classroom. Engaged students—from their classrooms and laboratories to co-curricular activities and service learning—are encouraged to explore, to try out, to share, even to fail, as they pursue their ideas in a multitude of projects from scientific research to creative performances.
Will every student complete a project?
Why is project work important?
Hands-on work is a high-impact practice. Research shows that students learn more in engaged-learning environments, and project work teaches “soft skills” such as leadership, collaboration, perseverance, and resilience. Finally, we know that students who engage in project-based work usually perform better in school and stay in school longer.
Features of a good project
- Personal Connection: Why do I care about this?
- Originality: How is my approach new?
- Quality: What standards will be used to evaluate my work?
- Deliverable Product: How will I showcase my results?
- Reflection: To what extent did I meet my goals? How did the process work?