2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

In this work-in-progress paper, we examine the skill development of students from a variety of disciplines in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) following their extended involvement in an interdisciplinary undergraduate research experience. Undergraduate research in STEM is an important step in student learning and has been shown to help students prepare for further studies and jobs. There are many forms of undergraduate research experiences, but a common method is for a student to work closely with a teacher in research. Students often find these hands-on experiences very useful and learn to work in teams, manage projects, and communication skills. In the scope of this work-in-progress study, our program, originally rooted in engineering, now draws one-quarter of its students from departments outside the College of Engineering. The program objective is to offer students early in their programs hands-on project experiences and enhance their collaboration skills across diverse disciplines and projects. Our study centers on an innovative, faculty-led interdisciplinary undergraduate research program. We interviewed 10 participants, evenly split by gender, of whom four have transitioned to the workforce and describe what they gained from the experience. The findings offer insights into student skill development and provide perspectives on the benefits of the experience from recent alumni who have transitioned to the workforce after participating in the undergraduate research experience.