Robert Whipple

Robert Whipple, Senior, Pan-African Studies

What was one of the biggest challenges you have encountered the in the process of research? How did you overcome it?

My biggest challenge was writing. I needed to improve my writing to make it sound more scholarly. I overcome this limitation by reading more scholarly journals and seeking out my faculty mentor to edit my work.

 What would you tell a friend who would want to become involved in research?

I would tell them to have a passion in conducting research and the patience to collect data and wait for results.

How do you think you have grown as a student and/or as a professional as a result of research?

I have definitely expanded the style of my paper to be more presentable upon submission. The outline of my papers are logical and flow with headings and micro themes.  

How has your research experience impacted your overall journey as a college student?

I have developed my skills in APA citation, which is pertinent to my field in Pan-African Studies research.

What do you think are the commitments involved in undergraduate research?

I think that undergraduate research requires academic excellence, striving for a bare minimum 3.0 GPA. Research is a big commitment as you must read all that you can on your topic, do the research, and then obtain IRB approval so you can begin experimenting with live subjects. Research takes a great deal of hard work, but if you put in the effort, you can be very successful.