2 Research Reflection by My Bui

Faculty Mentor: Karl Lins (Finance, University of Utah)

My undergraduate research experience has been one of the most intellectually and personally transformative parts of my academic journey. I am deeply grateful to my mentor, Professor Karl V. Lins, whose guidance and encouragement were instrumental in helping me navigate this journey. His mentorship was not about providing raw ideas or pointing me directly to answers, but rather, about empowering me to think independently, to explore, and to truly engage with the research process. I believe this approach is what made the experience so meaningful and impactful.

Under Professor Lins’s supervision over the past two semesters, I have learned how to take ownership of my learning. I developed critical skills in self-directed research, academic writing, and problem-solving-skills that extend far beyond the classroom. When the process became challenging, his belief in my potential helped me to push through and continue striving for a deeper understanding. This experience has not only enriched my undergraduate education, but it has also clarified my future direction. It confirmed my desire to pursue graduate school, where I can continue to grow as a researcher and contribute meaningfully to the field. Above all, I now value the importance of asking the right questions and finding purpose in the process, not just the outcome. For that, I sincerely thank Professor Lins for being a mentor who truly understands how to guide a student toward independent discovery.