The study examines the reliability and impact of undergraduate research experiences (UREs) using the Survey of Undergraduate Research Experiences (SURE) and a follow-up survey. The research aims to answer three questions: whether UREs enhance the educational experience of science undergraduates, attract and retain talented students in science careers, and act as a pathway for minority students into science careers. The study found that most participants reported significant learning gains and continued their plans for further education in science. A small group who discontinued their plans showed lower gains. Women and men reported similar benefits and career plans, while underrepresented groups reported higher learning gains. The follow-up survey indicated that students reported gains in independence, intrinsic motivation, and active learning in subsequent courses. The results replicated previous findings and showed high reliability, suggesting that the URE experience has a lasting impact on students' academic and career decisions.The study examines the reliability and impact of undergraduate research experiences (UREs) using the Survey of Undergraduate Research Experiences (SURE) and a follow-up survey. The research aims to answer three questions: whether UREs enhance the educational experience of science undergraduates, attract and retain talented students in science careers, and act as a pathway for minority students into science careers. The study found that most participants reported significant learning gains and continued their plans for further education in science. A small group who discontinued their plans showed lower gains. Women and men reported similar benefits and career plans, while underrepresented groups reported higher learning gains. The follow-up survey indicated that students reported gains in independence, intrinsic motivation, and active learning in subsequent courses. The results replicated previous findings and showed high reliability, suggesting that the URE experience has a lasting impact on students' academic and career decisions.