Engaging Undergraduate Students in Substance Use and Related Mental Health Disorders Research within South Dakota: A Review of the Summer Program for Undergraduate Research in Addiction (SPURA)

BACKGROUND: The Summer Program for Undergraduate Research in Addiction (SPURA) at the University of South Dakota provides research opportunities to better understand substance use and related mental health disorders. The program was initiated in 2014 from funding from the National Institute on Drug Abuse with a mission to provide high-quality mentorship and research experiences for undergraduate students, including those underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and math. METHODS: Students from the University of South Dakota were recruited to participate in this program. Survey responses and demographic information were collected from the students. RESULTS: During the first five years, 37 students completed the program. Many of these students were underrepresented in science. Of the students that had completed their undergraduate degree at the time of the last survey, most students either continued their education in a health professional or graduate program, or were employed in a career related to mental health or substance use. CONCLUSIONS: The current report reflects upon the outcomes of the program and future directions. With continued effort, SPURA will provide critical education for future leaders and health care professionals on topics related to substance use and mental health disorders, resulting in a greater number of advocates for those afflicted by substance use.