Interested in joining Dr. Gary Creasey's research team? The following points comprise just a few reasons why students at Illinois State can benefit from getting involved in Dr. Creasey's research.

Personal Growth: In my lab you learn a lot about yourself. Over time my students often think differently about their family experiences and learn the value of attachment relationships. In addition, you will learn a lot about how to deal with interpersonal conflict with family members, roommates, and romantic partners.

Research Training: I first teach my students the basics; thus, you will learn a lot about research ethics, how research is conceptualized, and basic experimental procedures. In addition, our methodologies are complex, and are training opportunities in themselves. For example, I use intensive interview and observational procedures. Thus, you can learn valuable clinical interview skills and you will become a better listener and observer--important lessons for budding psychologists. Finally, you will also learn how to use video, audio, and computer equipment.

Research Credit? Most of my undergraduate and graduate students are either working for research credit (Special Projects or Independent Study) or getting paid. Regardless of whether or not you are getting paid, gaining academic credit, or volunteering, these experiences look great on a resume and are a must if you want to go to graduate school.

What undergraduate students should expect: My undergraduate students are vital cogs in my research projects. We have lots of interview and observational data that needs to be collected, transcribed, and coded. Because my students have to handle sensitive, personal data, adherence to APA ethical guidelines is a critical component of the learning process. In addition, I believe a lot of my students feel their research experiences in the lab are stimulating because we rely so heavily on observational methods. We typically observe amazing things that simply cannot be measured on questionnaires. Not surprisingly, many of my undergraduate students work with me for more than one semester and also go on to great graduate programs.

What is the student's experience: Kelli Gschwind, one of Dr. Creasey's students, states: "I started looking for faculty members that had interests similar to mine. I approached Dr. Creasey and began working with him this semester. I have gained so much responsibility in the past few months. Dr. Creasey has really involved me in the research by training me to do clinical interviews. I have become more and more interested in Developmental Psychology and this has led to my decision to apply to the Developmental Sequence at ISU. If I get accepted for next fall, I hope to continue working with this project."

Other questions: Contact Dr. Creasey by e-mail at glcrease@ilstu.edu or stop by to see him in DeGarmo 441.