Stages / Eligibility / Application / Timeline

Pathways to Research (P2R) was designed to support EOP students by creating opportunities for first-generation, undergraduate students to participate in the research process while learning about graduate school. Because every participant will vary in their disciplinary interests and previous experiences, P2R is self-paced with activities ranging across four themes based on the goals collaboratively set every quarter between participants and their mentors.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements?

Eligible undergraduate students:

• Are EOP students (See the EOP appeal process here) 
• Are majoring in a social sciences or humanities discipline
• Are sophomores, juniors, or seniors 
• Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above (Students with lower GPAs will be considered on a case by case basis)
• Have completed the Composition ( C ) general education writing requirement by the end of Fall 2022
• Are interested in gaining research experience and pursuing a graduate/advanced degree 

Can commit to completing the program requirements

Mentors facilitate participant growth across four themes:

Theme 1: The Basics of Doing Research

Graduate mentors will work with participants to explore research interests, develop research questions, write a literature review, explore methods and methodologies, and complete the human subjects’ training.

Theme 2: Professional Development and Networking

Graduate mentors will work with students to connect with faculty in relevant fields, refine their CV, and explore professional development opportunities.

Theme 3: Conducting Research

Graduate mentors will work with participants to apply for IRB approval, analyze data, and share findings.

Theme 4: Planning for, Applying to, and Paying for Graduate School 

Participants will explore various graduate programs in relevant fields, compile application materials, and explore financial aid sources.

Which Path is Right for You? 

Path 1 is intended for seniors and other students who can commit to 1 year of research development. Students enrolled in Path 1 will participate in P2R activities and mentorship from October 2022 through May 2023 and receive a total of $1500 in research stipends (distributed across 3 quarters). In Path 1, students will work to complete a literature review and develop research questions for a future research project, or begin to analyze secondary data or previously collected primary data. Mentors will guide students on this path to develop a detailed plan for applying to graduate school. Students in Path 1 will present literature reviews, research questions, and/or research proposals at the Spring Symposium in May 2023. You should enroll in Path 1 if you are graduating before Spring 2024 and want to learn more about the research process. 

Path 2 is intended for sophomores, juniors, and seniors enrolling in a fifth year who can commit to developing their research over 2 years. Students enrolled in Path 2 will participate in P2R activities and mentorship from October 2022 through May 2024 and receive a total of $3500 in research stipends (distributed across 6 quarters and summer). In Path 2, students will continue meeting regularly with their mentors over the summer (virtually) and will use summer to collect primary data according to the research plan that they developed during their first year in the program. During their second year in P2R, students in Path 2 will analyze primary data and use the detailed plan that they developed with their mentors during the first year to guide them through the process of applying to graduate school. Students in Path 2 will present research proposals at the Spring Symposium in May 2023 and their data analysis at the Spring Symposium in May 2024. You should enroll in Path 2 if you are motivated to collect and analyze primary data and need support applying to graduate school during your senior year. Path 2 is especially useful for students intending to complete a Senior Thesis. 

What are the Application Requirements? 

Applications consist of the following:

• Google Form questionnaire 
• Short answer question (150-350 words): Describe one college course that has inspired you in some way. If applicable, please explain in what ways the course content relates to your research interests. 
• Short answer question (150-350 words): Please explain what you are looking for in a mentor and how a mentor will contribute to your academic and personal success.
• Essay (3-4 pages) that includes the following:
  • A personal statement that discusses your personal background, including how your family history, identity/identities and/or educational history have helped to shape you
  • A detailed description of your research interests
  • An explanation of how your research interests intersect with your educational goals and career objectives
  • Why you want to participate in P2R and how your participation will assist you in achieving your goals
  • An explanation of how you will prioritize your participation in P2R, whether you intend to enroll in Path 1 or 2, and why you believe you can commit to participating in P2R for 1-2 years.  

• Most recent UCSC unofficial transcripts

• Community college transcripts (if applicable)
• Optional short answer question (150-300 words): If you have a GPA lower than 3.0 please explain the circumstances that led to this and how you are prepared to raise your GPA while enrolled in P2R. 

Applications will only be considered if they are completed in full.

What Makes A Strong Application? 

Short answer responses should be concise and thoughtful. Application essays should be organized, coherent, and detailed while staying within the page limit. 

Pro tip: Have a friend or tutor proof-read your responses before submission. 

Applications will be assessed based on the following criteria:

• All questions answered in full 
• Diversity in interests and research topics
• Enthusiasm for research and advanced education
• Commitment to completing the program
• Alignment with available mentors 

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis from May through September and will be reviewed in June, July, and October.

Apply Here 

P2R Timeline and Key Events