{"id":7,"date":"2025-07-28T17:11:00","date_gmt":"2025-07-28T17:11:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/?page_id=7"},"modified":"2026-08-06T16:44:47","modified_gmt":"2026-08-06T16:44:47","slug":"surf","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/","title":{"rendered":"SURF"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"pl-7\"  class=\"panel-layout\" ><div id=\"pg-7-0\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-7-0-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-0-0-0\" class=\"widget_text so-panel widget widget_custom_html panel-first-child\" data-index=\"0\" ><div class=\"widget_text smcm-intro-section panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-7-0-0-0\" ><div class=\"textwidget custom-html-widget\"><h2>Research That Starts with You.<\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-7-0-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-last-child\" data-index=\"1\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>The Seahawk Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) is an eight-week summer program that gives students the opportunity to work full-time on a faculty-mentored research or creative project. Open to students from all disciplines, SURF provides hands-on experience, professional development, and a collaborative learning community. Fellows share their work throughout the summer and present their projects at the annual SURF Symposium, showcasing their discoveries to the campus community.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-7-0-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-0-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"2\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-113ccd71f3e6-7\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643881103_0516bbd22c_o-scaled.jpg\" width=\"2560\" height=\"2291\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643881103_0516bbd22c_o-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643881103_0516bbd22c_o-300x268.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643881103_0516bbd22c_o-1024x916.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643881103_0516bbd22c_o-768x687.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643881103_0516bbd22c_o-1536x1374.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643881103_0516bbd22c_o-2048x1833.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" alt=\"A person stands behind a podium labeled &quot;St. Mary\u2019s College of Maryland,&quot; speaking into a microphone and holding a small device.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-7-1\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-7-1-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-1-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-gold-buttons panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"3\" ><div class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-7-1-0-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-gold-buttons so-widget-smcm-gold-buttons-default-d75171398898-7\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><nav class=\"smcm-gold-buttons\"><ul><li><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#whysurf\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-light fa-presentation-screen\"><\/i>Why SURF?<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#expectations\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-people-pants\"><\/i>Student and Mentor Expectations<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#applications\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-computer\"><\/i>Applications<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/li><li><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#ls\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-books\"><\/i>Library Support<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#pf\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-handshake\"><\/i>Past Fellows<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"#so\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-award\"><\/i>Scholarly Outcomes<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-down smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/li><li><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/sample-proposals-and-tips\/\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-marker\"><\/i>Sample Proposals and Tips<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-right smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/surf\/faq\/\"><div class=\"smcm-gb-label-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-circle-question\"><\/i>FAQ<\/div><div class=\"smcm-gb-icon-wrapper\"><i class=\"fa-solid fa-angles-right smcm-gb-linktype\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-7-2\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-7-2\" ><div id=\"pgc-7-2-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-2-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"4\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-113ccd71f3e6-7\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643871229_9a205443fd_o-scaled.jpg\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1909\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643871229_9a205443fd_o-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643871229_9a205443fd_o-300x224.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643871229_9a205443fd_o-1024x764.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643871229_9a205443fd_o-768x573.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643871229_9a205443fd_o-1536x1145.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/07\/54643871229_9a205443fd_o-2048x1527.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" alt=\"A woman presents a slideshow titled &quot;The Creation of the Jakin&quot; to an audience in a classroom, with text and images displayed on a large screen.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-7-2-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-2-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child\" data-index=\"5\" ><div id=\"whysurf\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-7-2-1-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"text-align: ;\">Why <strong>Surf<\/strong>?<\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-7-2-1-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"6\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>The Seahawk Undergraduate Research Fellowship (<strong>SURF<\/strong>) gives students the opportunity to design and complete an independent research or creative project with the guidance of a faculty mentor. Working alongside an interdisciplinary cohort, fellows develop research, communication, and problem-solving skills while gaining valuable experience collaborating across academic fields.<\/p>\n<p>SURF fellows receive a <strong>$4,000 stipend<\/strong>, on-campus housing, and a meal plan during the eight-week program. Additional funding may be available for approved project materials, and faculty mentors receive a $1,200 stipend for their participation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-7-2-1-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"7\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button red\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/why-surf\/\">Find out more of Why You Should Join<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-7-3\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-has-style\" ><div class=\"panel-row-style panel-row-style-for-7-3\" ><div id=\"pgc-7-3-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-3-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child\" data-index=\"8\" ><div id=\"expectations\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-7-3-0-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\">Student and Mentor <strong>Expectations<\/strong><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-7-3-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"9\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>By being part of SURF, both Fellows and Mentors are expected to meet a set of <strong>responsibilities<\/strong> that ensure a productive and enriching research experience. Fellows are required to <strong>work full-time over the course of the eight-week program<\/strong>, maintaining consistent attendance, engagement, and a strong commitment to their research projects. This includes regular communication with their mentors and participation in any scheduled workshops or check-ins. Mentors, while <strong>not required<\/strong> to be present full-time, are expected to provide meaningful guidance, support, and oversight throughout the program. They are responsible for ensuring that each Fellow is well-supported, making progress, and has access to the necessary resources. If a research project extends beyond the SURF timeline, mentors are also expected to assist Fellows in developing a clear plan for completing or continuing their work after the summer concludes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-7-3-0-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"10\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button red\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/surf\/student-and-mentor-expectations\/\">Learn More About Expectations<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-7-3-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-3-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"11\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-113ccd71f3e6-7\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-28-at-2.54.08-PM.png\" width=\"1257\" height=\"1573\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-28-at-2.54.08-PM.png 1257w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-28-at-2.54.08-PM-240x300.png 240w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-28-at-2.54.08-PM-818x1024.png 818w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-28-at-2.54.08-PM-768x961.png 768w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-28-at-2.54.08-PM-1227x1536.png 1227w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1257px) 100vw, 1257px\" alt=\"A person uses a laboratory glove box workstation, with their arms inside the attached black gloves, surrounded by lab equipment on a wooden counter.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-7-4\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-7-4-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-4-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"12\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-113ccd71f3e6-7\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55380683350_6a65a0063c_o.png\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55380683350_6a65a0063c_o.png 1920w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55380683350_6a65a0063c_o-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55380683350_6a65a0063c_o-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55380683350_6a65a0063c_o-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55380683350_6a65a0063c_o-1536x1024.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55380683350_6a65a0063c_o-272x182.png 272w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" alt=\"A woman speaks at a podium labeled \u201cSt. Mary\u2019s College of Maryland\u201d while two people sit and listen in a classroom setting.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-7-4-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-4-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child\" data-index=\"13\" ><div id=\"applications\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-7-4-1-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"text-align: ;\"><strong><\/strong>Applications<strong><\/strong> <\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-7-4-1-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"14\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>Before submitting their application, student applicants are <strong>strongly encouraged<\/strong> to identify a faculty mentor and engage in a thoughtful discussion about their proposed research project. This conversation should include an overview of the project's goals, timeline, and any relevant expectations or requirements. Establishing this shared understanding early in the process helps ensure that both the student and mentor are aligned in their vision and commitment to the project. Additionally, this collaboration provides the mentor with the necessary context to write a <strong>meaningful and informed<\/strong> letter of recommendation in support of the student's application.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-7-4-1-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"15\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button red\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/surf\/applications\/\">Learn More About Applying<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-7-5\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-7-5-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-5-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child\" data-index=\"16\" ><div id=\"ls\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-7-5-0-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\">Library <strong>Support<\/strong><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-7-5-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"17\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p><strong>Library faculty<\/strong> are enthusiastic supporters of SURF projects and bring valuable expertise in research, information literacy, and academic writing. They are an excellent resource for students at all stages of their project development, regardless of discipline.<\/p>\n<p>Library faculty are available <strong>year-round<\/strong> to help students refine their project ideas, locate scholarly sources, and craft strong, well-supported proposals. During the SURF program itself, they continue to be available to support students with a wide range of research needs from advanced searching strategies to citation management and organizing written work.<\/p>\n<p>Whether you're just starting to shape your research question or deep in the writing process, library faculty are eager to collaborate and help you succeed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-7-5-0-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"18\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button red\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/surf\/library-support\/\">Learn more about library support<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-7-5-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-5-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"19\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-113ccd71f3e6-7\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55377656911_470fb5111e_o-scaled.jpg\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1929\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55377656911_470fb5111e_o-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55377656911_470fb5111e_o-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55377656911_470fb5111e_o-1024x772.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55377656911_470fb5111e_o-768x579.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55377656911_470fb5111e_o-1536x1158.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2026\/08\/st-marys-college-maryland-55377656911_470fb5111e_o-2048x1543.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" alt=\"A woman stands at a podium labeled \u201cSt. Mary\u2019s\u201d in front of an audience, with a screen behind her displaying the word \u201cQuestions?\u201d as someone raises their hand.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-7-6\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-7-6-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-6-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"20\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-113ccd71f3e6-7\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-29-at-2.13.12-PM.png\" width=\"894\" height=\"1204\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-29-at-2.13.12-PM.png 894w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-29-at-2.13.12-PM-223x300.png 223w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-29-at-2.13.12-PM-760x1024.png 760w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-29-at-2.13.12-PM-768x1034.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 894px) 100vw, 894px\" alt=\"Person standing next to metal shelves with plastic bins containing small tubes under grow lights, giving two thumbs up.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-7-6-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-6-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child\" data-index=\"21\" ><div id=\"pf\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-7-6-1-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\">Past <strong>Fellows<\/strong><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-7-6-1-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"22\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>The Seahawk Undergraduate Research Fellowship (<strong>SURF<\/strong>) is a prestigious program available to students across all academic disciplines at St. Mary\u2019s College of Maryland. Since its inception in 2013, SURF has provided an invaluable opportunity for undergraduates to engage deeply with research projects spanning a wide array of fields, including the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. This program is designed to foster intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and hands-on experience, allowing students to explore their academic passions under the guidance of dedicated faculty mentors.<\/p>\n<p>Over the years, SURF has supported a rich variety of research endeavors, from original literary analyses and historical investigations to innovative scientific experiments and social science studies. These projects not only contribute to the students\u2019<strong> personal and professional growth<\/strong> but also enhance the academic community at SMCM by expanding knowledge and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration.<\/p>\n<p>Many bright and talented students have participated in SURF, using the fellowship to develop their skills in research methodology, data analysis, and scholarly communication. Their dedication and achievements have brought great pride to St. Mary\u2019s College, highlighting the institution\u2019s commitment to undergraduate research and academic excellence. The program continues to inspire new generations of Seahawk scholars to push boundaries, ask meaningful questions, and contribute thoughtfully to their fields of study.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-7-6-1-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"23\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button red\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/past-fellows\/\">See past project abstracts<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-7-7\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-7-7-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-7-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-title panel-first-child\" data-index=\"24\" ><div id=\"so\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-7-7-0-0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-title so-widget-smcm-title-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><h2 class=\"smcm-section-title navy\" style=\"\"><strong>Scholarly<\/strong> Outcomes<\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-7-7-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"25\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p>All Seahawk Undergraduate Research Fellows have the valuable opportunity to present the results of their research at a highly anticipated <strong>end-of-summer symposium<\/strong> held on campus. This symposium serves as a platform for fellows to showcase their hard work, share their findings with faculty, peers, and the broader college community, and engage in meaningful academic discussions. It provides an excellent experience in public speaking and professional presentation, helping students refine their communication skills while celebrating their scholarly accomplishments.<\/p>\n<p>In addition to this culminating event, many fellows have gone beyond the college walls to share their research more widely. Several participants have successfully published their SURF projects in respected academic journals or have presented at regional, national, and even international conferences and professional venues. These achievements highlight the quality and significance of the research conducted through the SURF program and reflect the strong mentorship and support the fellows receive throughout their projects. By contributing to their academic fields in such meaningful ways, SURF fellows not only elevate their own educational journeys but also enhance the reputation of St. Mary\u2019s College of Maryland as a vibrant hub of undergraduate research excellence.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-7-7-0-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_smcm-button panel-last-child\" data-index=\"26\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-smcm-button so-widget-smcm-button-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t><div class=\"smcm-cta-container\"><a class=\"smcm-cta-button red\" style=\"max-width: 100%; width: 100%;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/surf\/scholarly-outcomes\/\">See examples of Scholarly Outcomes<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pgc-7-7-1\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-7-1-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"27\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-113ccd71f3e6-7\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-28-at-2.00.47-PM.png\" width=\"722\" height=\"908\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-28-at-2.00.47-PM.png 722w, https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/app\/uploads\/sites\/218\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-28-at-2.00.47-PM-239x300.png 239w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 722px) 100vw, 722px\" alt=\"Person in lab coat, mask, and gloves uses probes on a circuit board at a lab workstation; a multimeter and notes are visible.\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-7-8\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-7-8-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-7-8-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"28\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><em>The 2026 SURF program is made possible by the generous financial support from the Office of the Provost, the Byrd SURF Fund, the DeSousa-Brent Scholars Program, and the Center for the Study of Democracy.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Seahawk Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) is an eight-week summer program that gives students the opportunity to work full-time on a faculty-mentored research or creative project. Open to students from all disciplines, SURF provides hands-on experience, professional development, and a collaborative learning community. Fellows share their work throughout the summer and present their projects at [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":245,"featured_media":187,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"full-width-content","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-7","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","entry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/245"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":231,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7\/revisions\/231"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/187"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smcm.edu\/undergraduate-research-fellowships\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}