Professional Development Series

Summer 2026 Undergraduate Research Professional Development Series

Steger Center Auditorium (unless otherwise noted)

May 27: Orientation

June 3: How to Be a Good Mentee with Iris Jenkins

The mentor-mentee relationship plays an important role in cultivating a culture of ethical research and innovation. Students who feel supported by their mentors are often more comfortable asking questions and voicing their concerns, which in turn helps researchers to work through potential issues in a more proactive manner. Join Iris Jenkins, Director of Scholarly Integrity and Research Compliance, to explore ways to make the most of your relationship with your mentor.

June 10: Graduate School at Virginia Tech with Jenn Million

The Virginia Tech Graduate School invites you to learn more about its programs through a fun and interactive welcome reception. Attendees will receive a VT graduate school application fee waiver.

June 24: Graduate School Panel with Monica Hunter

Faculty and admissions officers from several graduate and professional programs at VT including Vet Med and the Medical School, will share tips for making you a highly competitive candidate for admission. Graduate students will also share their insights and experiences in graduate school, from applying and selecting a faculty advisor, securing funding, and the day-to-day activities that define graduate work.

July 1: Funding Graduate School with Kelsey Reed

There are many means by which you can fund a graduate education, like scholarships, fellowships, and research and teaching assistantships. Join Kelsey Reed, to learn more about processes and tips for finding funding for graduate school.

July 8: Abstracts and Presentations Workshop with Amanda MacDonald

Join Amanda MacDonald from University Libraries to get tips on creating and presenting an effective poster, in preparation for the Summer Undergraduate Research Conference. Bring your draft poster and receive direct one-on-one feedback.

July 15: Writing Your Personal Statement with Paul Heilker

In this workshop, Dr. Paul Heilker, Associate Professor & Dir. Rhetoric and Writing and Director of the Honors Laureate Program, will lead participants in the stepwise process of crafting an effective personal statement.

July 22: Communicating Science Workshop

July 29: Optional Presentation Practice Session with Peer Mentors

The peer mentors will serve as your audience as you practice your presentation before the conference.
Location: Goodwin Hall

July 30: Summer Undergraduate Research Conference

Location: Goodwin Hall

The summer culminates with our annual research conference where researchers celebrate a successful summer and showcase their work in poster presentations. Registration and abstracts are due at 5:00 p.m., July 20. See more information about the Summer Research Conference, including registration form, is available on the OUR website.