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Research can be a very daunting endeavor, especially for students with no prior experience or specific knowledge related to complicated labs. However, here at Viterbi School of Engineering, the transition into research is seamless and thorough. CURVE, or the Center for Undergraduate Research in Viterbi Engineering, is a wonderful opportunity for students to participate and contribute to innovative research occurring at USC. One aspect of this research program is tailored toward first-time researchers, in any year of their studies at USC, and offers a great way to work closely with a professor or research scientist without requiring too many prerequisites. All the labs list recommended prerequisites, but it is not indicated that any of them are mandatory.

Viterbi allows students to apply to CURVE every fall, spring, and summer semester to maximize the involvement of its students in different aspects of research. These research topics cover fields of civil, mechanical, electrical, computer, biomedical, and aerospace engineering, along with computer science, artificial intelligence, and more. Applicants are also able to apply to research labs in other fields, so the choices are not limited to only your specific major. The lab that I applied to was included under biomedical engineering even though I am a mechanical engineering student. The lab allowed students to do cell-culturing and work to microscale human tissues for testing. This goes to show that even as a first-time researcher, I have the opportunity to explore these different fields and disciplines!

Like many opportunities at such a world-class institution, the CURVE program is competitive, but not impossible. Although I did not get into the research lab that I had hoped to at the start of this semester, they still encourage applicants to reapply when the application cycle comes around again. The program really works hard in ensuring that students will be able to make the time commitment, typically around 10 hours per week, and that they will make a good fit for their lab.

Another, less formal research opportunity would be cold-emailing professors and expressing interest in their work or research. This approach is less guaranteed, but it can still prove to be effective. Professors at USC are incredibly understanding and share a united goal of teaching students about their passions. I have interests in the medical and biomedical fields of research, so cold-emailing professors is also an approach of which I have been taking advantage.

USC is on the forefront of innovation, and with the resources of such an amazing institution, research here is fascinating and a wonderful opportunity for students!

Karissa Ginoza

I am studying Mechanical Engineering with a Pre-Professional Emphasis in Medicine and I am from Wailuku, Maui. I will be graduating with the class of 2027. Aside from being a Viterbi Student Ambassador, I am actively involved in USC Science Outreach, the Society of Women Engineers, and am eager to participate in research this upcoming school year. To keep in touch with people from home, I am also a member of Hawaii Club!