Research Opportunities: ESP
The quest of the ESP is to leverage the exciting engineering-based research at the University by exposing the first year students to actual research activities. The addition of a research component to the first year student's experience allows the student to see over the horizon offered by prerequisite courses. By giving the first year student a more in-depth look into engineering it is hoped that we will increase the enthusiasm level of the students with the result being significantly improved retention rates. Higher retention rates will translate into a larger and better-trained graduating class of much-needed engineers and computer scientists.
The program is designated as a one-year program where the students are exposed to engineering research through a set of tours and demonstrations in the Fall semester. During Spring semester students are placed in Engineering and Computer Science labs where they work 10 hours per week participating in ongoing research projects. Although they may not be able to do the most complicated parts of the research, the opportunity to participate in associated tasks will allow them to gain an understanding of the research process.
In addition to gaining research experience, the ESP students are also given opportunities for professional development, mentoring, and career counseling. These complementary programs encourage more well-rounded and goal-oriented students with strong communication skills and career objectives.
An additional benefit of the Engineering Scholars Program is that the students participating in the program are introduced to peers in the engineering program. Events such as social gatherings and field trips are regularly scheduled for both current members of the program and the program alumni. A highlight is the annual inaugural reception where students and parents are brought together with participating professors, top-level College of Engineering administrators and program sponsors.
Each student participating in the program is awarded a stipend for the student's freshman year. Dr. Patrick A. Tresco, Associate Dean for Research in the College of Engineering Dean's Office, directs the program. The participating students' cumulative average GPA is 3.96 and their average ACT score is 32 - these are top students!
For more information contact Ashley Paulsen at ashley.paulsen@utah.edu or 581-4528.