Peer Research Consultants

Meet with a Peer Research Consultant (PRC) when you have a research paper or assignment for class, or would like to learn how to get started with undergraduate research like a UROP project.

Peer Research Consultants help you:

  • Choose good keywords and databases for searching
  • Find and evaluate scholarly articles and other sources
  • Narrow down your paper topic and create research questions
  • Navigate the Libraries website
  • Explore undergraduate research opportunities (like a UROP project) and provide tips for finding a research mentor

Schedule a 30 minute appointment here

What to expect

One-on-one appointments with a PRC are available starting week 1 of the semester.

Before, during, and after a consultation

Before the consultation

  • For online consultations: Find the link to your PRC's Zoom Room in the appointment confirmation email.        For in-person appointments in Walter Library: Your PRC will be in the Tutoring and Academic Success Center (TASC), room 204 Walter Library on the East Bank Campus.For in-person appointments in the Health Sciences Library: Your PRC will be on the 5th floor, room PWB 5-171.For in-person appointments in MCAE: Your PRC will be in the MCAE Tutoring Room, 141 Appleby Hall (enter the front door of Appleby and take a right into MCAE)
  • Learn what your assignment includes and what the instructor expects.
  • Come with ideas about what topics or research areas interest you.
  • Think of the questions that you have about your research project/paper. This allows for a smoother consultation.
  • Bring the assignment, any completed work, and the course syllabus.

During the consultation

  • If meeting in-person, PRCs have table signs - find your PRC!
  • If meeting online, login to your UMN email and find the link to your PRC's Zoom Room in the appointment confirmation email. Be prepared to share your screen so the PRC can help with your research.
  • You will discuss your assignment and where you are in the process. The PRC can help brainstorm ideas, find resources offered by the Libraries’ web page, or demonstrate ways to navigate databases effectively. You decide what to cover and talk about with the PRC. The meeting is relaxed.        
    • Consultations are typically 30 minutes.

After the session

  • The PRC sends a summary email listing databases, articles, or resources discussed during the consultation.
  • The email includes a request for evaluation.

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Meet the PRCs

PRC Eliana

Eliana

Hi! I'm Eliana, a sophomore studying Materials Science & Engineering at the U. I'm also hoping to minor in chemistry and philosophy. I am a board member of the philosophy club, and work on the UMN solar car team. I love all things history, film, literature, and math. As someone experienced in both scientific and liberal arts academic writing, I'm ready and excited to help out with your research needs!

PRC Izzy

Izzy

Hey y’all! I’m a senior majoring in Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development. When I’m not doing research or working as a TA for the Biology and Evolution of Sex course, I love to read, draw, and explore new cafes. I can’t wait to help with your writing in any way possible!

PRC Saff

Saff

I'm a transfer student, an English major, and a lover of all things writing. On campus, I'm involved with the Community Engaged Scholars Program. My recent personal accomplishments include teaching my dog to do backflips and figuring out how to keep houseplants alive (for now). As for my future accomplishments, I'd love to help you with your research!

PRC Srishti

Srishti

Hi! I'm Srishti, and I'm currently in the fourth year of my Architecture B.S. and Art History Degree, with minors in Landscape Design and Planning and Studies in Cinema and Media Culture. I'm a member of the WAM Collective as well as the Curling Club and the Engineering without Borders Context Committee. In my free time I try to read, but I end up watching TV or movies instead. Looking forward to working with a new cohort of library researchers!

PRC Varun

Varun

Hi! I’m a senior majoring in Computer Science and minoring in Management. I love listening to music, cooking, and traveling. I’m looking forward to contributing to your research.

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About the program

See the PRC Program Report for information on our past year's operations. 2024-25 Peer Research Consultant Program report

Peer Research Consultants help you:

  • Choose good keywords and databases for searching
  • Find and evaluate scholarly articles
  • Narrow down your paper topic and create research questions
  • Navigate the Libraries website
  • Explore undergraduate research opportunities (like a UROP project) and provide tips for finding a research mentor

Meet with a Peer Research Consultant (PRC) when you have a research paper or assignment for class and need help with it. It is best to meet earlier than later.

All PRCs have completed the WRIT 1301 course (or similar) with a grade of B or higher. The PRCs also train to develop their information literacy, tutoring, and cultural competency skills. 

Any student is encouraged to meet with a PRC to improve their research skills. The program targets:

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Program goals

Provide academic support for University of Minnesota undergraduates and to support the University of Minnesota's Student Learning Outcomes, specifically:

  • identify, define, and solve problems
  • locate and critically evaluate information

Support the vision developed by the Office for Equity and Diversity. The priority areas identified for this program are:

  • improve campus climate for diverse students, faculty, staff and visitors
  • engage internal and external communities in looking at strategies for the retention and success of diverse students

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For questions about the PRC program

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