The Undergraduate Science Research Experience (USRE) and Its Transformative Nature for Houston Community College Students

Since 2005 the author has provided community college science and engineering students the opportunity to conduct substantive summer research projects in the areas of materials science, physical sciences, engineering disciplines and other multidisciplinary research areas. To date, nineteen students have participated in research experiences at regional universities and NASA-Johnson Space Center. This paper will examine the genesis of the program, providing an overview of the program structure, the role that materials research has played in the success of the various student experiences, and thoughts on future directions and improvements.