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��������'s Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) students explored how to turn their research experiences into valuable career skills during an interactive presentation on July 14, 2026.

As part of the SURE orientation, Margaret Funmilayo Adie, a doctoral researcher and writing instructor at ��������, was invited to deliver a presentation titled “From Research Experience to Career Readiness: How to Communicate Your SURE Skills to Employers.” Her session focused on helping undergraduate researchers recognize the professional skills they develop through research and communicate those skills effectively to potential employers.

Borrowing from her ongoing research knowledge in Rhetoric, Composition, and Literacy Studies where she is currently developing a CDA and AI-Aware Packet for undergraduate writing and communication classes, Adie emphasized that undergraduate research provides more than academic knowledge. Through research, students develop transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, technology use, and professionalism. These are valuable competencies that employers seek across different industries.

One of the central messages of the presentation was that students should learn and master how to describe their research experiences in ways employers understand. Rather than simply stating that they collected data, reviewed articles, or worked in a laboratory, students were encouraged to explain how these activities demonstrate their abilities to analyze information, evaluate evidence, collaborate with others, and solve real world problems.

The presentation also introduced practical strategies for communicating research experience during job applications and interviews. Students learned how to write stronger résumé bullet points, develop a 30-second elevator pitch, and use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer interview questions. Through guided activities and reflection prompts, students were encouraged to connect their research responsibilities to professional competencies.

Adie also highlighted the importance of recognizing the value of everyday research activities, including meeting deadlines, working with faculty mentors, using contemporary research tools, and presenting findings. These experiences, she explained, provide evidence of students' readiness for professional environments.

The session reinforced the broader purpose of the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience which is helping students develop skills that support their academic growth and future careers. By learning how to effectively communicate the value of their research, students can better position themselves for internships, graduate school, employment, and other professional opportunities.

The presentation concluded with a central message for undergraduate researchers: “When you talk to employers, do not only describe your project. Describe the skills, habits, and confidence you gained through the project.”

Through opportunities such as this presentation, ��������'s Office of Student Research continues to connect undergraduate research with students' academic and professional development.