Many students assume research is only for a select few—but that’s one of the biggest misconceptions. At UB, undergraduate research is designed to be accessible, supportive, and exploratory, no matter your background or major. We’re here to clear up some common myths that may be holding you back.
Reality: Research happens across all disciplines.
Undergraduate research at UB includes work in the arts, humanities, social sciences, health professions, business, engineering and more. Research can involve experiments, creative projects, archival work or data analysis.
Reality: Most students start with no experience at all.
Research is a learning process. Faculty mentors expect to teach you the skills you need, and many projects are designed specifically for beginners.
Reality: Students can start as early as their first year.
Early research experiences help you explore interests, build confidence and develop skills over time. There’s no “perfect” year to begin.
Reality: Research is often collaborative.
Many projects involve teams of students, faculty and sometimes community partners. You’ll learn how to ask questions, share ideas and contribute as part of a group.
Reality: Research helps you figure that out.
It’s common to enter research with curiosity rather than clear answers. Starter projects and early-stage experiences are meant to help you discover what excites you.
Reality: Learning the process matters more than the outcome.
Not every project ends with a publication or presentation. Many focus on the Do–Reflect–Think–Apply process—building skills, asking better questions and learning how research works.
Reality: Research can fit into your schedule.
Time commitments vary. Some projects require a few hours a week, while others are short-term or summer-based. Clear expectations help you balance research with classes, work and life.
Reality: Faculty mentors expect you to be a learner.
A faculty mentor’s role is to guide, support and teach—not to test what you already know. Mentors help you ask questions, learn methods and grow as a researcher over time. Curiosity, reliability and openness to feedback matter more than expertise.
Reality: Undergraduate research is a partnership.
While faculty provide direction and context, students are active contributors. You’re encouraged to ask questions, share ideas and take ownership of your learning. Many projects evolve through conversation and collaboration.
Reality: How you think, learn and reflect matters just as much.
Undergraduate research values the process—how you approach problems, respond to challenges and make meaning of your work. Reflection, ethical decision-making and intellectual growth are core parts of the experience.
Reality: Unexpected outcomes are part of real research.
Not all research leads to clear answers or expected results. Learning how to revise questions, rethink approaches and apply insights is central to research—and often where the most growth happens.
Reality: Faculty mentors are looking for interest and commitment.
Faculty often seek students who are curious, motivated and willing to learn. You don’t need perfect grades or a polished research plan to reach out—showing interest is the first step.
If any of these myths sound familiar, you’re not alone. Undergraduate research at UB is about exploration, growth and possibility.
Explore the Get Started Resources to learn how you can begin.