ETSU’s newly-established Honors College has instituted an undergraduate research program, allowing students to work with faculty mentors and to gain experience in designing, carrying out and publishing research before earning a baccalaureate degree.
All undergraduate students interested in research, not merely those in honors programs, may apply for a maximum award of $1,000 to purchase supplies, equipment, computer time or other expenses for a project. The deadline to submit proposals is Friday, Oct. 14. A committee of Honors College members and selected specialists across campus will review the proposals and choose those deemed worthy of grants.
Complete regulations governing the research grant program can be viewed at www.etsu.edu/honors/research/students/collaboration.asp.
Funds are also available through the Honors College to support undergraduate student travel to give presentations at professional gatherings. Beginning Oct. 15, students may apply for up to $500 to enable them to present a paper, poster or performance or to allow participation in a formal competition at a conference. Expenses may include registration fees and travel costs.
In addition, the Office of Undergraduate Research is compiling a database where students may post their ideas for investigation online and receive assistance with finding a mentor. That faculty member will act in an advisory capacity, overseeing research, helping locate necessary funding and guiding the student toward publication of the study’s results.
Beginning this year, students eligible for work-study positions can locate university employment involving research through online postings, and they will be permitted to use work-study financial aid to support their activities. To provide assistance for supplies and research-related travel, the ongoing student-faculty research grant fund will be expanded.
Director of Undergraduate Research Dr. Foster “Frosty” Levy looks forward to developing all aspects of the program and providing new opportunities for ETSU students. Long-term goals of the program include development of an undergraduate forum, placement of undergraduates in novel research environments and production of a radio show highlighting student explorations.
Those who participate in the program may receive the designation “Distinguished in Research” or “Distinguished in Creative Arts” upon graduation. They will also have an advantage when entering graduate school, the point at which most students traditionally begin research efforts.
For further information, call Levy at 439-6926.

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