# The Road Less Traveled: A Pathway Leading to Research at a Primarily Undergraduate Institution

## TL;DR

This paper discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of starting a research program with undergraduates at a primarily undergraduate institution.

## Contribution

The paper provides insights into establishing undergraduate research programs at institutions not traditionally focused on research.

## Key findings

- Undergraduate researchers can make important contributions despite needing guidance and varying commitment levels.
- Starting a research program at a primarily undergraduate institution involves significant challenges and learning experiences.

## Abstract

Scholarly activities in primarily undergraduate institutions
involve
very different challenges from those in major research universities.
In this essay, the author discusses how he initiated a research program
involving undergraduates at Illinois State University following a
number of missteps and false starts. Although undergraduate researchers
have much to learn, and the levels of commitment vary considerably,
they can nevertheless often make important contributions.