Transformation Catalyst: The Lived Experiences of Undergraduate Nursing Student Research Assistants

According to the International Council of Nurses, a key role of nurses is engaging in research to improve outcomes for individuals, families, and communities (2021). Nursing research participation enhances clinical outcomes, improves retention, and prevents burnout (Mitchell et al., 2020; Smiley et al., 2023). Exposure to diverse nursing roles builds resilience (Dames, 2020). Undergraduate nursing student involvement in research is not well understood. Nursing research assistant roles are often reserved for graduate students; pathways for undergraduate students are unclear.