Did you write a research paper or complete a project this year? Did you use the library’s resources to assist with your research? Did you know the library has the Kevin and Tam Ross Undergraduate Research Prize, which recognizes excellent research and effective use of library resources?

For undergraduate students, this research prize requires applicants to write a short essay about using the Leatherby Libraries resources for their research. A panel of judges will read the essay looking for evidence of students’ information literacy abilities to find and critically evaluate their sources. The essay is scored on the description of the research process, not the actual research project. The essay word count is 600 to 800 words; that is only 3 pages!

Whether a STEM student or an Art student, all Chapman University undergraduate students are encouraged to write about their experience using the library and interacting with our librarians. Your research project or paper can be a solo or group endeavor.

In addition to a certificate, bragging rights, and instant library fame, what else do you win? You can win a cash prize, recognition on the Leatherby Libraries blog and social media, your winning application showcased on the Chapman University Digital Commons, an invitation to publish your final project there, and a small celebration in your honor.

Prizes go to first, second, and third-place winners.

All of this for just a 600-word essay? What are you waiting for?

The deadline for submission is Sunday, April 21, 2024, at Midnight.

For more details about eligibility and guidelines, please click here or contact Taylor Greene at tgreene@chapman.edu or at (714) 532-7782.

Pictured:  Librarians Essraa Nawar, Katherine Roth, Taylor Greene, Margaret Puentes, and Lauren McDaniel, Dr. Jason Keller, Dr. Véronique Olivier, 2023 1st-place winner Myra Dayrit, 2023 3rd-place winner Isabelle Dhindsa, 2023 2nd-place winner Olivia Anderson, and Dean Kevin Ross of the Leatherby Libraries.