Andrea completed a
project developing a statistical model which was used to make accurate
predictions in the NCAA March Madness basketball tournament.
How did you get involved in research?
I first got involved when Dr. Litwin mentioned that he would need help with data
entry, and I thought it would be a great opportunity to learn more about the
research that faculty take part in.
How has participating in research impacted your education?
Helping with the research has helped me by having a closer relationship with the
faculty. It helps that they know you and can help advise you to a better path
for your future.
What has been the most satisfying aspect of your research experience?
With my research, I have learned how to do work involving data analysis. I
gained valuable insight into using SPSS and have learned the importance of data.
This project has helped me in gaining and sharpening skills I can apply
throughout my academic career.
What are your future plans? How has participating in research helped you in
preparing for those future plans?
My future plans are to apply for a PhD program at the University of Michigan-Ann
Arbor and the University of North Carolina. Participating in research has helped
me realize that this is what I would like to do with my future. Taking part in
UROP at U of M-Flint helped me to find a fabulous internship out of U of M-Ann
Arbor, which helped me find graduate programs that fit my interests.
What advice would you give to students interested
in being involved in research?
Be open to working on projects that may not be in your field. There are research
fundamentals that can be learned through any type of research. Overall, knowing
how to do research in general is a very important skill.
