Learning Objective #1: Identify the benefits of participation in undergraduate research for baccalaureate nursing students

Learning Objective #2: Examine the effects of participation in research on early nursing careers

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Through a joint effort between the College of Nursing (CON) and a community health center for underserved clients, undergraduate nursing students have engaged in research. This research group includes faculty and undergraduate students who have been studying the needs of underserved and uninsured clients for the past six year. Students have engaged in the research process through literature review, instrument development, data collection, data analysis, and dissemination of findings at research conferences. To evaluate the impact of this experience post-BSN graduation, a survey was designed to collect data from previous undergraduate team members. This survey included open ended questions related to the effect of research participation on their early nursing careers. Findings demonstrated an increased interest in nursing research, improved communication/presentation skills, greater ability to apply nursing research findings in clinical practice, and early engagement in research post-BSN graduation. It is hoped that this research will provide information on how undergraduate research can impact future nursing careers.