Undergraduate research experiences are a high impact educational practice that benefits students in a wide range of aspects: increased retention, improved communication skills, development of ability of work independently, and increased confidence among others. For female undergraduate students in computing these benefits are strong since they can envision themselves in roles as researchers and can get encouragement from peers and see other women as role models.
The Explore Computing Research Conference PR will prepare women studying undergraduate degrees in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, and Software Engineering in Puerto Rico to apply for Research Experience for Undergraduates summer opportunities. Students will learn about undergraduate research and its benefits, will listen to faculty and graduate students about their path into becoming researchers and how to get into graduate school, and promote the participation of women in these opportunities. In this 1 ½ day conference, participants will network with peers and faculty and learn about the life of a graduate student in computing.