IBII SEED Research InternAt — CSUF - College of Humanities & Social Science

This research project assesses what prior knowledge students bring with them to the Introduction to Ethnic Studies course. In addition, the study will look at how this knowledge is impacting a student’s sense of comfort with concepts and ideas covered in the course. Finally, this study assesses a student’s sense of belonging, emerging identity, how they see themselves connected to other students, and how they experience an emerging critical consciousness about who they are and what they consider important.

Learning Outcomes  

Engage in data analysis, and literature review (can be translated to skills like market research, etc.)
Receive professional mentoring & learn collaborative problem solving
Engage in Public speaking
Learn cultural and historical insight into the impact of Ethnic Studies on student identity development

Training  

Create Inclusive Learning Environments: Foster a mentoring relationship grounded in respect, empathy, and cultural humility; Encourage open dialogue and ensure that students’ identities and perspectives are valued in all aspects of the work.

Provide Clear Guidance and Structure: Set realistic expectations for meetings, deadlines, and project goals; Clarify when and how the research or creative work will take place (e.g., lab hours, fieldwork, virtual meetings, community events).

Maintain Consistent and Responsive Communication: Respond to student communications in a timely manner and arrive on time to all scheduled meetings and events.

Support Student Skill Development: Identify and intentionally support growth in key areas such as research design, writing, critical thinking, data interpretation, or creative production; Model and encourage professional behaviors including reliability, ethical conduct, and self-reflection.

Provide Regular Feedback and Progress Updates: Offer constructive, honest, and respectful feedback on student work and engagement; Participate in the semesterly Reflection & Evaluation process by completing the mentor feedback worksheet and meeting with IBII leadership to discuss student progress.

Encourage Professional and Academic Growth: Support opportunities for the student to present, publish, or share their work through IBII events, campus symposia, or community forums; Empower students to see themselves as emerging scholars, artists, or professionals capable of contributing to their field.

Tasks/Duties  

Conducting literature review on student development and ethnic studies
Working with data to determine emerging themes and major ideas
Reading relevant literature and engage in rich empirical discussions
Contributing to research presentations, posters, and potential publications
Attending & presenting at research conferences

Internship Term  

• Fall
• Spring