Researching the research enthusiasts: examining their motivation and the impact of a successful role model

This study delved into the motivations driving young students in Bangladesh to embrace research activities and explored the pivotal influence of successful role models on their research aspirations. We aimed to test the hypothesis that aspiring young researchers are primarily motivated by a desire to enhance their prospects of studying abroad and the successful role models positively influences and motivates these students. Through a survey of students in Bangladeshi high schools and universities, we uncovered that a substantial number of respondents are driven by the prospect of studying abroad and perceive research experience as a valuable asset for university applications. Remarkably, the success stories of role models who leveraged research to secure admissions to prestigious foreign universities have a profound impact on these students, serving as a powerful catalyst for their own research pursuits. Furthermore, this study revealed a remarkable level of interest in research opportunities among Bangladeshi students, even among those who are relatively new to research. These findings shed light on the factors driving the emergence of a burgeoning community of research enthusiasts in Bangladesh and suggest strategies to further promote and support research activities among young students.