For many undergraduate students, figuring out the next step after college can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, Governors State University students don’t have to go it alone. Imagine having a mentor—someone who’s been there before—guide you through the process of selecting a graduate school, all while helping you gain hands-on research experience. That’s exactly what the College of Education and Human Development’s Research Associate Development (RAD) Program offers.

This program is designed to help students, particularly those considering graduate school, dive into meaningful research with the support of GSU’s esteemed faculty members. Led by Dr. Alli Cipra, Dr. Figen Karadogan, and Penny Perdue, students not only learn how to conduct research but also explore how to leverage this experience to strengthen their graduate school applications.

At the heart of the program are the mentors.  Cipra, a professor with extensive expertise in psychology, specializes in helping students understand the intricacies of academic research.  Karadogan, an psychology professor, brings her vast knowledge to the table, ensuring students learn the ins and outs of conducting and presenting research. Perdue, the Director of Strategic Initiatives, is there to support students in navigating their professional goals and guiding them through the world of academic conferences. Mentors meet with students regularly to talk about research progress as well.

These mentors provide a supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to explore their research interests and take bold steps in developing their own projects. They don’t just provide feedback—they guide students through every stage of the research process, from brainstorming a topic to presenting at GSU’s annual Research Days in April.

One of the program’s standout features is its ability to connect undergraduates with real-world research opportunities. Students are paired with faculty mentors based on their research interests, creating a personalized and impactful learning experience. Whether a student is passionate about psychology, education, or human development, there’s a mentor who can help them turn that passion into a research project.

Students meet with their mentors monthly. Staying in contact with your mentor is key to success, as this relationship is the foundation for your research development. As previous students have shared, the experience is designed to be supportive, with the final presentation—a poster at GSU’s Research Days—being a low-stress opportunity to showcase your work.

For those looking to take their research further, the program even offers funding for students to present their work at external conferences, giving them a chance to share their findings with a broader academic community.

One of the most significant benefits of participating in the Research Associate Development Program is how well it prepares students for graduate school. Graduate programs often look for applicants with research experience, and GSU’s program helps students build an impressive resume while still in undergrad. The opportunity to present at conferences—both on campus and externally—demonstrates the kind of initiative and commitment that graduate schools love to see.

But it’s not just about the work you do; it’s about the mentorship you receive along the way. Having a faculty member guide you, give you feedback, and help you navigate the complexities of research can make all the difference when it comes to applying for grad school. This program is a direct pathway to enhancing your academic career while giving you the tools and confidence to succeed in graduate-level research.

For students in the College of Education and Human Development, the RAD program is a unique opportunity to not only gain valuable research experience but also to develop a close relationship with faculty mentors who can guide them on the next steps of their academic journey. The mentorship, combined with hands-on research experience and the opportunity to present at conferences, makes this program a critical stepping stone for those considering graduate school.

If you’re looking to gain research experience, build strong connections with faculty, and prepare for graduate school, this program could be exactly what you need. Keep an eye out for presentations in October and GSU’s Research Days on April 16-17—these events showcase the incredible work being done by students just like you.

In the end, it’s not just about getting into grad school; it’s about having the skills and support to excel once you’re there. The Research Associate Development Program offers just that—a way to turn your academic ambitions into a reality.