Getting Involved in Research

Getting involved in research at UTSA is about communicating your interest to the Professors at UTSA. Every department will have a dedicated webpage listing all the Professors affiliated with the department, and they are also likely to indicate their research interests. Their website may be listed, providing more information regarding their research group activities. If the research interest of a faculty excites you, make it a point to talk to the professor. Faculty members are happy to speak with you during their office hours unless they are occupied. So, email the faculty, schedule an appointment, and then visit their chambers. Before this meeting, it would be wise to peruse the literature in general and look at the recent publications from their research group. Depending on the funding situation, the faculty may employ you in some capacity (TA, RA, and so on) and give you the much-needed experience and knowledge to help you become more familiar with their research. If they cannot offer a funded position, inquire about other ways you can contribute unofficially and remain in constant touch with the faculty. Make sure to follow up regularly and be polite and respectful at each stage of the process!

In addition, you can also participate individually or as a group in the various tech competitions and workshops hosted by multiple departments within UTSA. Self-learning and application are other important ways to give you knowledge and experience. This route might seem challenging because it’s self-guided and unstructured, but it will help you learn much. Explore various relevant student organizations and attend their general meeting to understand what they do and how you can get involved. Make sure to participate in the multiple tech demonstrations and project showcases on campus and talk to the students on the other side of the table. Learn about how they got started, how they get funded, and how you can get involved. You need to network and explore all the different avenues to get involved in research at UTSA!

Good Luck!