My journey with undergraduate research began with just one sociology class, SOCI 314: Science at Risk? In this course, we examined the most controversial issues facing science today, revolving specifically around how the public sphere interacts with science. Through this class, Dr. Elaine Howard Ecklund invited us to attend a Religious and Civic Leaders Gathering hosted by the Religion and Public Life Program at Rice (RPLP), where we had the opportunity to participate with and learn from different scholars and leaders about studies of science and religion. Inspired by this experience, I applied to become an undergraduate scholar with the RPLP under the Boniuk Institute. Focusing on a central mission of understanding and promoting religious tolerance, the Boniuk Institute conducts interdisciplinary research to promote greater dialogue in academia and local and national communities at large.
When I joined the team at the very beginning of my sophomore year, I had no background in any official research. However, at every step, I was absolutely amazed at how welcomed I felt by everyone throughout the experience. From graduate scholars to postdoctoral fellows to research directors, everyone was willing to support and guide me as I learned. Undergraduate involvement is a central part of the RPLP’s commitment to training future scholars. RPLP integrates undergraduate training and education into every aspect of its work studying religion’s impact on spheres like politics and the workplace.
Now, as a junior, I am in my second year working with the Boniuk Institute and RPLP. I have had the opportunity to be involved in every aspect of the social science research process: from reading grant proposals to literature reviews to editing papers for publication. My current work involves a multitude of different projects, including background research for a study on scientists and religion along with creative work for social media. This semester, I have additionally had the opportunity to attend the Boniuk Institute’s Graduate Reading Religion Salon and interact with a diverse group of scholars and academic work. I am really grateful for how I have been embraced in this role and also for how I have been able to use my creativity, academic background, and perspective in this experience. Beyond giving me the ability to contribute to meaningful work, the Boniuk Institute has been invaluable to my own personal and academic growth. I know I will carry these experiences with me throughout the rest of my life.
- Adrienne, B. '25
Keep Exploring
Growing up in a small village, I (Pu, Martel ‘29) vividly remember a dozen kids gathering around a tiny box television just to watch a soccer match. Our village didn’t have much, but for 90 minutes, none of that mattered. The FIFA World Cup is where dreams come true, communities unite and the entire planet speaks a single language: soccer. Looking back, it’s hard to believe that I went from watching the tournament on that tiny screen to playing a behind-the-scenes role in bringing these massive sporting events to billions of people across the globe. Here’s a look at what it’s really like to bring the game to life on the international stage!
Working on a major global event is a common goal for anyone interested in the sports industry, but at Rice, these opportunities can often start earlier than expected. I’m Jacob L., Hanszen '27, and over the past year, I worked with the Houston Host City Committee to prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Here’s a look at my experience and the lessons I learned while helping to lay the groundwork for the tournament.
When choosing a college major, many students feel pressured to pick a path and stick to it. But what happens when your passions span from mechanical engineering to environmental history? Sanjana, McMurtry ‘29, shares how she refused to box herself in, finding ways to connect the dots between engineering, history and environmental science.
Helpful Links
713-348-7423
admission@rice.edu
M-F 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT