F.A.Q

I am not interested in pursuing a career in research. Is this the right path for me?

There are many advantages to joining a research program. You will have access to a premium scholarly network. You will get to collaborate with faculty and peers and gain professional research experience. Building relationships with faculty will help you get recommendation letters essential for internships, graduate school applications, and future jobs. You will have access to cutting-edge research labs, peer mentoring, mock research pitches, and the opportunity to publish. Being part of a structured research program will teach you how to balance academics and research, teamwork, time management, and polish your writing and communication skills.

I am not a science major. Is this for me?

All majors are welcome to conduct research. At CURF, we encourage students from all disciplines to participate and engage in research. In addition to Science majors, we have students from History, Architecture, Criminal Justice, Computer Science, Business Management, and English studies who are conducting research. Research helps students investigate topics of their interest, apply knowledge learned in classrooms, learn new skills while addressing large academic goals. 

I have no experience in research. Can I join?

Yes, most of our CURF research programs do not require you to have any prior research experience. Once you join a program, you will be matched with Faculty Research Advisor and Peer Mentors (upperclassmen) who will guide you and mentor you throughout the process. CURF’s goal is to provide you hands-on research experience that will allow you to polish your skills and enhance your educational experience at Kean.

Do I need a certain GPA to participate?

No. However, we recommend students with a CGPA of 3.0 to apply.

Under the current circumstances, what happens if I am unable to come to campus?

Due to COVID-19, we are aware that there are a lot of uncertainties lying ahead of us. However, that fear of uncertainty does not have to stop our plans. Since summer 2020, we have begun to offer virtual research experience to our students. Depending on the nature of the research project, faculty mentors can design projects that will allow student researchers to research and learn skills remotely.

Do I receive financial compensation for participating in research?

Students who are eligible to receive Financial Aid are especially encouraged to apply as federal work-study grants can pay them for time spent working on the research or creative project. If funding is available, some of the research positions may receive a stipend. In some special cases, students can earn research credit in lieu of financial compensation.