By Timothy R. Olsen ’09, M.B.A. ’18

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While preparing this issue, I discovered something that genuinely shocked me: Utah State University boasts the second-oldest undergraduate research program in the nation, surpassed only by MIT.

Since 1975, USU has empowered students to engage in hands-on research, making discoveries that extend far beyond the classroom. For 50 years, we’ve been trailblazers, enabling young scholars to ask big questions, tackle real-world problems, and innovate in ways that shape their futures.

In 2020, USU received the prestigious Award for Undergraduate Research Accomplishments (AURA) from the Council on Undergraduate Research, highlighting our place as a national leader. Accolades such as this reflect Utah State’s rich history and the forward-thinking vision of our faculty, staff, and students.

The theme of this issue, “Demystifying Research,” aims to illuminate how undergraduate research transforms lives. Research encompasses everything from ecological restoration to groundbreaking engineering advances, to creative works in the arts and humanities. Research is for everyone, regardless of discipline. This inclusivity is one reason our undergraduate research program has thrived for five decades.

Reflecting on my own time at USU as a journalism student, I realize how my experiences mirror this tradition of discovery. While not a traditional avenue, working for the student paper, The Utah Statesman, was my version of undergraduate research. It was in that “lab” where I honed my skills — investigating stories, asking tough questions, and learning to communicate effectively. Those late nights in the newsroom taught me more than just the importance of meeting deadlines, they taught me to embrace curiosity and helped develop my passion for storytelling. That hands-on experience was invaluable, shaping not just my career but also my approach to problem-solving and critical thinking.

In this issue, you’ll meet students who embody this spirit of exploration and the faculty that push them to new heights. You’ll read about projects addressing urgent challenges like water conservation and climate change, as well as efforts to understand the human experience through art, history, and psychology. These stories are a reminder that research isn’t just about answering questions — it’s about sparking curiosity and fueling a lifelong passion for learning.

As we approach the 50th anniversary of undergraduate research at Utah State in 2025, I invite you to celebrate Utah State’s proud tradition of research and the lasting impact made by generations of Aggies.

Go Aggies!

Timothy R. Olsen
Managing Editor
Utah State Magazine