Research

"Participating in the Research Apprenticeship Program was a very enriching experience for me. Committing to live interviews while under lockdown restrictions was both problematic and a gift from isolation. It was an emotionally rewarding opportunity to hear from people who could share their childhood memories of contracting and living with Polio, and also speak to their adult experiences during COVID-19. I learned seniors can offer a wealth of knowledge and are much more flexible to change than I anticipated. I would recommend that other students challenge themselves by completing a research project to gain valuable research skills from beginning to end."

Delores Maas

"The Research Apprenticeship Program was an amazing opportunity that helped me to confirm my desire to attend graduate school, as well as prepare me for undertaking higher levels of research. It allowed me to work one-on-one with a professor and compile an original piece of research using archival material, which I was able to present to faculty and students and will continue to work on to present at an academic conference. My research on the Miss Canadian University pageant and protest re-affirmed my interest in Canadian women and gender history and has encouraged me to continue my studies and research in this area."

Megan Blair

"Joining the Research Apprenticeship Program became more than just about writing a paper. This opportunity allowed me to explore complex topics in a more deep and meaningful way. Through the rigorous work over those eight months, I learned a lot about time management, discipline, and perseverance. With the help of my wonderful supervisor, I was able to grow as an individual and an academic and I will take these valuable lessons and hopefully one day apply them in my future graduate studies."

Mikayla Ferarro

"The Research Apprenticeship Program witnessed my greatest improvement during my university years. I graduated from Laurier’s Concurrent Education program in 2019 with a double major in Contemporary Studies and English. I was able to research on a topic that I had been wondering of with the support of the program and the close guidance from a professor. By undergoing this program, I have not only gained valuable research, writing, and presentation skills, it has also aided me in becoming a more studious learner. I urge any and all who may be interested to participate in this program."

Olivia Feng

"My research apprenticeship entailed detailed research of two collections of postcards donated to the Royal Ontario Museum. The postcards were donated on the behalf of two former Canadian missionaries to Korea, Frances Bonwick and Elda Daniels Struthers. The literature and independent research was eye-opening and concluded that the Japanese government tried to show the outside world that Korea was backwards and ensured that under their control Korea could evolve into a modern dominion within Japan. The project truly showed me what it would be like to take on in-depth research in the future. I believe this opportunity has helped to prepare me for the master's degree I will pursue in September. For students looking to continue their studies at the graduate level, I highly recommended looking into participating in a research apprenticeship."

Lauren Holmes