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Welcome to the ASCEND Study!

Understanding the Link Between Social Networks and Health Behaviors

Brown University is inviting young adults like YOU (ages 18–25) who are starting new jobs to participate in a unique research study. Let’s explore how social networks—your friends, coworkers, and family—shape health behaviors and life experiences.

Interested in participating? Find out if you’re eligible by completing our brief online screener here.

Why Join the ASCEND Study?

  • Get Paid! Earn up to $580 for participating (payments are made via Zelle or Amazon gift card)
    • Total Earnings Breakdown Listed Below
  • Make a Difference. Help researchers understand how work and social connections impact health.
  • Flexible Participation. Complete online surveys, quick daily assessments, and orientation sessions—all designed to fit your schedule.
  • Your Privacy Protected: Your responses are confidential and coded for anonymity.

What’s Involved?

Over Two Years, You’ll:

  1. Complete 1 baseline survey and attend a Zoom orientation session to get started.
  2. Complete 6 online surveys (about 60 minutes each).
  3. Participate in 7 short daily assessments (10 minutes each) 1 week at a time for a total of 5 weeks during the 2 year study period.

Here’s the Breakdown

  • 60-minute Baseline survey
  • 30-minute Zoom Orientation: Earn $60 for completing both. Paid right after the orientation session!

Complete 6 additional surveys over 2 years:

  • 1-month survey: $40
  • 3-month survey: $40
  • 6-month survey: $45
  • 12-month survey: $45
  • 18-month survey: $50
  • 24-month survey: $50
  • Complete 7 short daily assessments (10 minutes each), 1 week at a time
  • You will complete these assessments over the course of 5 weeks over the duration of the 2-year study.
  • Earn $5 per day for a total of $35 per week.
  • Complete all 7 days, and you’ll get a $5 bonus (total: $40/week).
  • $50 if you complete all 6 follow-up surveys.
  • $30 if you complete 4 or 5 follow-up surveys.

We’ll keep it simple and keep you updated through texts and emails!

What Will You Be Asked?

  • Share insights about your social connections (friends, coworkers, family) and how they influence your daily life.
  • Answer questions about work hours, stress, and health habits like alcohol use.

Eligibility

To be eligible, you must confirm that:

  • Are 18–25 years old.
  • Are starting a new job.
  • Live in the U.S.

Confirm your eligibility now—complete our short online screener by clicking below.

 

Have questions? Reach out to us anytime at projectascend@brown.edu or text (401) 863-2800

Your Privacy Protected: We take your privacy very seriously. Your responses are confidential and coded for anonymity.