August 2021 Research Seminar- "Inequality: Creating a More Equitable Houston"

HERE 2021 Dates: August 2 - 13, 2021

The Houston Early Research Experience (HERE) is a two-week workshop intended to orient rising sophomore and junior undergraduates to the fundamentals of conducting research. UH faculty members and instructors will lead the seminars. HERE will uncover the complexity of understanding and grappling with big picture problems. Students will discuss academic topics, broaden their professional network, and learn how to ask the right research questions when approaching their work. Students from all majors are encouraged to apply.

HERE students receive a $1K scholarship for their involvement, and an invitation to apply for the Houston Scholars program in the fall semester.

2021 HERE Program Description
For the 2021 program, students will examine various aspects of inequality in Houston. According to Rice University sociologist Stephen Klineberg (2020), "Houston is at the forefront of the major changes that are redefining the United States in the twenty-first century - the growing inequalities in a knowledge-based economy, the epic demographic transition, and the new importance of quality of place." In this context, HERE students will explore the challenges and opportunities associated with the rapid changes affected our city. In small groups led by a faculty mentor, students will develop a research proposal related to a contemporary problem, with topcis ranging from income disparity, poor infrastructure, lack of access to affordable healthcare, racial discrimination, and more. 

The 2021 HERE application has closed.

HERE Orientation: 
Students accepted into the HERE Program are required to attend the orientation session in mid-May, date TBD.

Eligibility for Candidates
Rising sophomores and juniors. Have at least four semesters remaining at UH after summer 2021 (This means you should not graduate before spring 2023).
Have at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA
All majors are eligible

Students may apply to both HERE and SURF in the same year.

HERE Seminar Activities
Faculty and community leader lectures and discussions
Read and discuss academic articles with seminar leaders
Conduct faculty-guided research and develop a research question and proposal
Participate in field experiences throughout Houston
Deliver a research proposal presentation 

HERE 2021 Application Deadline: March 12, 2021

HERE 2021 Mandatory Orientation: TBD in May 2021

HERE 2021 Program Dates: August 2-13, 2021

For More Information:
Dr. Rikki Bettinger, rrbettinger@uh.edu