Undergrad took prof's advice and discovered the exciting possibilities of research

Some of the most memorable learning experiences at university don’t necessarily happen in a classroom. Undergraduate student Janine Pelletier spent her summer participating in a unique learning opportunity. She used her time to conduct research on the barriers that stop teachers from using Trauma Informed Practices effectively within schools to help refugee students.

“We know Trauma Informed Practices are an effective way to help any student who has experienced traumatic events in their lives, especially refugee students coming from violent backgrounds. My research questioned why we aren’t using it, or using it effectively,” says Pelletier, a student in the Werklund School of Education.

Pelletier was able to do a summer research project, experiencing research outside the classroom thanks to funding provided by the University of Calgary Program for Undergraduate Research Experience (PURE). She was encouraged to apply for the award by one of her professors who said it would be a one-of-a-kind opportunity. 

Pelletier says she would absolutely recommend other undergraduate students take advantage of the opportunity. “It was an extraordinary experience for me to explore a topic I was passionate about. I am grateful for the opportunity. I made some valuable contacts in the field.”

The PURE award is an opportunity for students to work with University of Calgary researchers to learn how research projects are developed and conducted, and how research results can contribute to new knowledge and solve problems in a field of research and in society. The award provides financial support to students who conduct research for eight, 12 or 16 weeks between May and August. 

There is funding for approximately 135 students. In addition to PURE awards, the consolidated application for summer research funding includes: Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), the Alberta Cancer Foundation (ACF), Alberta Innovates (AI), the Alberta Transplant Institute (ATI), O’Brien Centre Summer Studentships (OCSS), and the Libin Cardiovascular Health Research award.

Applications for spring-summer 2019 are now open and the deadline for applications is Feb. 8, 2019. Supervisor evaluations are due Feb. 15 and cannot be completed until the student completes their portion of the online form. Results of the PURE summer studentship competition will be available in early April.

The PURE awards are a joint initiative of the provost and vice-president (academic) and the vice-president (research).