UGAR at Dartmouth: What's it like?

Hi everyone, I'm seriously considering Dartmouth for college, and I've heard a lot about the Undergraduate Advising and Research (UGAR) program. Does anyone have experience with it? How is it? Is it easy to find research opportunities as an undergrad?

Dartmouth College's Undergraduate Advising and Research (UGAR) program indeed is known for fostering a robust culture of undergraduate research, providing a supportive environment for students across all disciplines. UGAR helps students immerse themselves in their academic pursuits by facilitating direct faculty mentorship and providing funding for research experiences, both on and off campus.

New students are typically paired with a faculty advisor from the start, facilitated by UGAR, who helps guide them on their academic pathway. The level of attention Dartmouth faculty provides to undergraduates is one of the college's major strengths.

As for research opportunities, Dartmouth has a good reputation in this area. Students who are interested in research are often able to find opportunities due to the college's commitment to creating a myriad of research options. UGAR offers Research Assistantships where students work alongside faculty on their research projects. There are also the Presidential Scholars and Honors Thesis Grants for those pursuing their own research projects.

One of the unique factors of Dartmouth is the D-Plan, a flexible, year-round academic calendar. Many students are on campus even during 'off' terms like summer, creating extensive opportunities for more dedicated research involvement without the distraction of a full course load.

However, just like any other program, a lot depends on your level of initiative and dedication. Each department has various ongoing research projects at any given time, but it's up to you to seize the initiative, reach out to professors, and make a case for your involvement. Start a dialogue with your advisor and other faculty members about your interest in research early on – they can provide you with guidance and potentially connect you with available opportunities.

In sum, UGAR at Dartmouth is quite valuable for students interested in research, providing a strong foundation, and aiding in the discovery of engaging research opportunities. But, as ever, individual experiences may vary based on the effort put forth and relationships developed with faculty.