As an undergraduate, there are a lot of things - whether they are exciting opportunities or necessary obligations - on your plate! Taking on a research project or a leadership position are great ways to expand your network and apply your learning. But it can also be daunting - Will you have time? Will you be able to ask for support? Will you fit in? This tutorial is all about balancing your busy school, work, and personal lives, as well as navigating the exciting new world of academic research.

student researcher

Image credit: UW Visual Asset Collection

Learning Goals

After completing this module, students will be able to:

Draw on personal strengths to manage imposter phenomenon
Create a plan to organize and manage their time
Follow guidelines on how to communicate with others in an academic context
Know where to go for additional help.

Reflect

Knowing more about yourself will help inform how you manage time, reach out for help, and communicate what you will bring to and hope to get from a research experience. Consider these questions and keep your answers in mind as you continue through this module:

What are three skills, abilities, or characteristics you bring to your undergraduate experience?
What are three skills, abilities, or characteristics you need to succeed?