Lead by Example
When and how did you find out that you could do independent research or creative work as a UMBC undergraduate?
I first found out about doing independent research or a creative work through myUMBC. I was honestly looking for ways to help pay for school and I happen to stumble along a grant where I could do research or creative work.
How did you find a mentor and decide on a project? How did you know this was the project you wanted to do?
I found a mentor through the help of Ms. Janet Mcglynn. She was able to point me in the direction of a few individuals and from there I was able to choose my mentor, Dr. Vin Grabill. I knew that I wanted to do this type of creative work because I could reach a variety of students and could relate with the issues they face being in high school.
What academic background did you have before you started on this research?
Before starting this research I received my associates degree from the Community College of Baltimore County in general studies. I then transferred to UMBC in effort to extend my knowledge and education in hopes of receiving my BA from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
How did you learn about applying for the Undergraduate Research Award? Was the application hard? Did your mentor help you?
I learned about applying for the URA from searching for scholarships. The application was not hard, but paying attention to detail was the key. My mentor assisted me as I filled out my application. As I went through every step, he was there critiquing and brainstorming with me until I finalized the application.
What is your advice to other students about getting involved in research?
My advice to other students who want to get involved with research is to dive right in. If there is something you feel like you can change, or you want to see change through independent research or creative work do it. When we start to over think and wonder if we should or shouldn’t, we lose the drive to achieve. So research and have fun doing it.
What are your career goals?
My career goals include starting my own magazine or being a traveling artist who through my artwork can change the mindset of a city or nation.
Read more about Charles's research, "Lead by Example" at the link below.
When and how did you find out that you could do independent research or creative work as a UMBC undergraduate?
I first found out about doing independent research or a creative work through myUMBC. I was honestly looking for ways to help pay for school and I happen to stumble along a grant where I could do research or creative work.
How did you find a mentor and decide on a project? How did you know this was the project you wanted to do?
I found a mentor through the help of Ms. Janet Mcglynn. She was able to point me in the direction of a few individuals and from there I was able to choose my mentor, Dr. Vin Grabill. I knew that I wanted to do this type of creative work because I could reach a variety of students and could relate with the issues they face being in high school.
What academic background did you have before you started on this research?
Before starting this research I received my associates degree from the Community College of Baltimore County in general studies. I then transferred to UMBC in effort to extend my knowledge and education in hopes of receiving my BA from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
How did you learn about applying for the Undergraduate Research Award? Was the application hard? Did your mentor help you?
I learned about applying for the URA from searching for scholarships. The application was not hard, but paying attention to detail was the key. My mentor assisted me as I filled out my application. As I went through every step, he was there critiquing and brainstorming with me until I finalized the application.
What is your advice to other students about getting involved in research?
My advice to other students who want to get involved with research is to dive right in. If there is something you feel like you can change, or you want to see change through independent research or creative work do it. When we start to over think and wonder if we should or shouldn’t, we lose the drive to achieve. So research and have fun doing it.
What are your career goals?
My career goals include starting my own magazine or being a traveling artist who through my artwork can change the mindset of a city or nation.
Read more about Charles's research, "Lead by Example" at the link below.
