We’re not just about research; we’re about discovery, innovation, and creativity—all while having fun. Whether you’re curious about starting your own project, connecting with brilliant mentors, or just want to explore what research is all about, Undergraduate Research Club (URC) is your place at Kennesaw State University.
Here’s what you can do as a URC member:
Kickstart your research journey—learn the ropes, find a mentor, and dive into exciting projects.
Share your breakthroughs—we’ll guide you on how to present your results, publish your work, and even secure funding!
Plus, we’re always mixing things up with fun events, workshops, and opportunities to meet fellow students and faculty who are just as passionate about research as you are. Join us, and let’s make research an adventure!
Get Involved with Research Students at Kennesaw State
The Undergraduate Research Club (URC) is all about building a supportive, exciting research community where you can grow professionally and make a real impact through your projects. Open to all KSU students, URC offers regular meetings covering diverse research topics and provides the perfect platform to connect with fellow students and mentors.
Purpose
Our mission is to promote an environment of undergraduate research on campus, to advance
and disseminate the theory and practice of research, to provide members with opportunities
for professional socialization in a research environment, to promote research that
benefits the community, and to foster relationships among like-minded peers who are
also interested in research. URC is open to all KSU students.
Meeting Information for the 2024-2025 Academic Year
DATE
TIME
LOCATION
TOPIC
August 26, 2024
5:30pm-6:30pm
Academic Learning Center Suite 5500 or join online through Microsoft Teams
Intro to Research
September 23, 2024
5:30pm-6:30pm
Academic Learning Center Suite 5500 or join online through Microsoft Teams
Academic Learning Center Suite 5500 or join online through Microsoft Teams
TBD
February 24, 2025
5:30pm-6:30pm
Academic Learning Center Suite 5500 or join online through Microsoft Teams
TBD
March 31, 2025
5:30pm-6:30pm
Academic Learning Center Suite 5500 or join online through Microsoft Teams
TBD
April 28, 2025
5:30pm-6:30pm
Academic Learning Center Suite 5500 or join online through Microsoft Teams
TBD
Research Teams
The Undergraduate Research Club has conducted team-based research projects that are
decided upon by the membership at the beginning of the academic year. Each team is
led by either an officer or member who has experience in undergraduate research. The
projects are presented at KSU's annual Symposium of Student Scholars.
Memes to Manuscripts is a fun, research-driven event series where students turn pop culture phenomena—like memes, albums, and more—into real research projects! Through guided sessions, you'll learn how to craft research questions, analyze data, and present your findings, all while exploring topics that excite you.
I am currently a senior at Kennesaw State University working towards a degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering. I was previously in the First Year Scholars Program where I worked with Dr. Roneisha Worthy on “Exploring the Use of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase to Enhance Compost Nitrogen Content,” which was then presented at the Symposium of Student Scholars in the spring of 2022. I am also entering my third year of being an Undergraduate Research Peer Mentor. Since starting at Kennesaw State University, I have been able to gain undergraduate research experience and familiarize myself with the Office of Undergraduate Research. In my free time, I enjoy reading, gardening, and baking. I would like to let incoming freshman know that while undergraduate research can present challenges, it is rewarding in the end.
I am Mason Hipp, a third year student at KSU. I am studying Professional Chemistry with a minor in Mathematics. I am honored to be serving as Vice President of Undergraduate Research Club (URC), because I believe they're a plethora of research opportunities available at our school, Kennesaw State University (KSU).
Furthermore, I believe URC should focus more energy and resources towards socialization/collaboration
between colleagues, clubs, colleges, etc. Such interactions are important for undergraduate
researchers, who are attempting to network with professionals in their field, fellow
undergraduate researchers, professors, research mentors, KSU staff, etc. After all,
we are the culmination of the five people we spend the most time with AND we live
in a world where connections are critical to success.
My previous research project, of two years, was exploring the ideal conditions for
organic phosphorous bearing species to form on local comets. However, this project
was discontinued. Now, I am gathering my thoughts and looking for a new research mentor
whose project will help teach me the skills necessary to pursue a career in astrochemistry.
Aside from my studies, research, and role as a teaching assistant, here are some fun
facts about me:
~I enjoy hiking with my dog Allie.
~I am a logical problem solver, so I enjoy most board and card games (ex. Chess, Catan, Concordia, Magic the Gathering, Backgammon, etc.)
~I am fascinated by space and hope to study Astrochemistry in graduate school.
I will prioritize URC members because hardworking individuals deserve to be recognized.
I am in this role to serve URC members and any prospective undergraduate researchers.
Therefore, do not hesitate to reach out to me should you have any questions!
Hi Everyone! My name is Kiara O’Neal, and I am a sophomore Computer Science major. In my freshman year, I had the privilege of participating in the First Year Scholars Program, collaborating with Dr. Da Hu on “Enhancing Bridge Inspections using Drone Technology and Computer Vision”, a project that I was able to present at the 2024 Symposium and NCUR 2024.
This year, I am thrilled to serve as the treasurer of the Undergraduate Research Club.
In this role, I am committed to supporting and promoting research initiatives across
disciplines. Outside of research, you can find me indulging in my love for reading
and representing the club gymnastics team at KSU.
If you have any questions about the club or are curious about research in general,
please don't hesitate to reach out. I am always eager to engage in meaningful conversations
and collaborate on exciting projects!
Hello, my name is Aichel Candanedo! I am currently a sophomore Biochemistry major on the Pre-med track here at KSU. I was previously a First-Year Scholar working with Dr. Cyril Okhio on “Brain Augmented Technology (BAT) and STEM-Peer Augmented Success & Support (STEM-PASS).” I presented the project at the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) in the spring of 2024 and at the Spring Symposium of Student Scholars in the spring of 2024. I am entering my first year as an Honors Peer Mentor for the Honors College at KSU. I have always been passionate about helping others and I hope to apply all the skills I have gained from Research and mentoring into my future career as a Physician!
Outside of school, you can catch me participating in 5k’s as I love to run, as well as studying, cooking, going to concerts, and volunteering! I love anything that pushes me to my limit and challenges me. I find it fascinating to see how far the human body can endure, and I love to learn about myself and others through growth and challenges.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions, concerns, or
just need someone to talk to!
I am the Director of the Office of Undergraduate Research and Professor of Psychology. I have served as the faculty advisor for the Undergraduate Research Club since its
inception in 2011. I have been the faculty mentor for several of the club's research
projects. If you have any questions about anything related to undergraduate research,
please do not hesitate to reach out!
