SPARK Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: What are the benefits of Student Program for Academic Research & Knowledge (SPARK; formerly EREA)?
A: Students in SPARK gain important research experience during their first year at NU, which can be leveraged to secure future lab placements. Some students have been listed as co-authors on publications, and learned methodologies and skills related to their specific lab research. Students have found that the program profoundly influenced their academic and career decisions and trajectories.
Q: Who is eligible to apply?
A: First-year students in Communication Studies and Communication Sciences and Disorders are eligible to apply. Unfortunately, this does not include transfer students to the majors.
Q: How are students selected?
A: A selection committee will match faculty needs with student interests and their backgrounds. No experience with research is necessary to be eligible.
Q: Can I choose which professor I get to work with?
A: You are welcome to indicate your interests and the selection committee will match faculty to students based on the pool of applicants and makes the final decision. It is not guaranteed you will be placed with your first choice.
Q: Which labs and projects are accepting students for this school year?
A: The list of labs and research projects seeking undergraduate assistants and job descriptions this year is located here: project opportunities.
Q: How many students will be matched?
A: SPARK is made possible by donor funds, and this year we can support 16 first-year students. If the number of applicants exceeds 16, unfortunately not every student will be matched.
Q: Why is there a required course I need to take?
A: You will receive recognition on your transcript for completing the SPARK experience by enrolling in CMN 110 Research Fundamentals in Communication (0 credit). Meeting once a week in Winter and Spring, it will support community and introduce students to research thinking, including the utilization of library resources. Workshops and bootcamps will prepare you for the annual Undergraduate Research & Arts Expo held May.
Q: How do I apply?
A: The SPARK application deadline is October 5th by 11:59 pm. The online form for Academic Year 2026-2027 will open September 17th.
Q: How many hours a week does a SPARK student work?
A: Typically, a SPARK student works about 6 hours per week, but this is arranged with the professor and varies by task and schedules. The award comes with 133 hours of payment, which must be completed by August 28, 2027. In some circumstances, students have completed their hours during the summer, but this is at the professor’s discretion.
Q: When would my work as an SPARK student start/end?
A: Work usually begins at the start of the quarter in January. However, if your hiring paperwork is complete and the faculty member wants to begin earlier, you may do so. Ideally you will complete the hours by the end of spring quarter. The SPARK contract ends August 28, 2027 and cannot be carried over to your sophomore year. You will no longer be a first-year student!
Q: How much will I be paid?
A: The award totals $2,400 for 133 hours of work. The pay rate for an SPARK student is $18/hour.
Q: Can an international student apply?
A: Yes. There is additional paperwork, but you are eligible to be an SPARK student.
Q: What sorts of projects did past EREA students work on?
A: Please visit the following links:
2025-2026 EREA Awardees, Mentors, and Labs