Schapiro Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF)

Randolph-Macon College views students as colleagues through their summer research opportunities that take them out of the classroom for a total summer immersion program.

Like professional scientists and scholars, Randolph-Macon students have to apply to the SURF program by writing a proposal and request for grant money to fund their research. If their project is accepted, they receive a stipend of $3,000 and free housing. In addition, funds are available for supplies and travel.

At the conclusion of the SURF program each year, students present their research in a celebratory research conference. Randolph-Macon administrators, an esteemed keynote speaker, faculty supervisors and proud parents join the students to learn about their varied and interesting research projects. Students are also required to submit a final written report and encouraged to present their findings at a professional meeting in their discipline. Many past SURF participants have presented their research throughout the United States and the world and have had great success in publishing their work and obtaining entry into graduate school.

Requirements

Students from all departments and programs are encouraged to apply.

As a rising junior or senior, or as an exceptional rising sophomore, you may apply to the SURF program. We recommended that you have a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.00 at the time of application.

To begin, you need to identify a Randolph-Macon faculty member as sponsor and research advisor.

Completed proposals (see SURF proposal Guidelines) are due in the Dean's Office according to posted submission dates and guidelines. Awardees will be informed in March.

Please contact Dr. Serge Schreiner (ext. 7206 or e-mail sschrein@rmc.edu) or Dr. Kelly Lambert (ext. 4717 or email klambert@rmc.edu) with questions or concerns.

Proposal Guidelines

Proposals must be typed or printed and double-spaced, and must adhere to the following format:

• Title Page - title of project, name, research advisor, academic major, class, GPA and date
• Statement of Research Question to be addressed
• Background - provide a thorough review of the literature related to your research question (500 words maximum)
• List of References cited in literature review
• Methodology/Plan of work - description of research procedure necessary to carry out project with projected timeline (300 words maximum)
• Materials list - resources needed and estimated cost
• Location of project - where work will be conducted
• Statement of intended outcome of project - will the results be used to prepare a manuscript? A work of art that will be displayed in an appropriate forum? An oral or poster presentation at a professional meeting? Indicate the conferencen where your work might be presented (please consult with your faculty supervisor to identify appropriate conferences).
• SURF applicant evaluation form - to be completed by faculty supervisor; this form which is attached to this document should be included in a sealed and signed envelope.