2010 Research Symposium a Success

Professional posters and remarkable research mark annual event

2010 Research Symposium a Success

On April 27, students flowed into the Johnson Center's Dewberry Hall. They came early to prepare for their poster and oral presentations as part of the annual Research Symposium.

Over 50 undergraduate students participated in the event, some presenting their findings in poster and oral formats.

Excited about their research, and some nervous to present, they all exhibited a level of academic professionalism not always expected of undergraduate students.  

"I applaud the effort by these students and am impressed that this level of research is coming from undergraduates," said Matthew Zingraff, Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Programs.

The culmination of extensive research, students designed and created their posters and then, for two hours, answered detailed questions from the faculty, parents, and other students attending.  

In addition to poster presentations, oral presentations were made by students from nine departments.  This opportunity for public speaking is welcomed by students interested in pursuing careers in academics, as these presentations mimic those done at academic conferences. However, many students will pursue careers that place on emphasis on clear, concise public speaking skills.  

The students explored a variety of subjects from the study of speed limits in inclement weather to the print media coverage of Oregon's 2007 Tobacco Tax Referendum. Each project was sponsored by a faculty mentor.

"The abilities to collect, analyze, interpret and talk about information are skills necessary in every field," said Jamie Cooper, Associate Dean for undergraduate academic affairs. "This event showcases the college's interest in and support of developing these skills in our students. The symposium is also a great way to promote cross-disciplinary conversations between both students and faculty. In laying out the program it was exciting to see common themes in the research of administration of justice majors and psychology majors, and economics majors and history majors."

"The overall quality of the students' research projects was exceptional and the passion the students exhibited in describing their work was inspiring," said Nance Lucas, Associate Dean. "I'm confident that many of these students will continue their work in graduate programs. The research symposium highlighted the many talents ofour students and the excellent mentoring by our faculty."

Award Winners

Best Oral Presentation: Eric Vitoff - Print Media Coverage of Oregon's 2007 Tobacco Tax Referendum
Best Poster Presentation: Kattey Mayrose - Supernatural Beliefs in the Vietnamese Culture of Eden Center
Best Overall Research Project: Thaihuong Ngyuen - What Makes People Angry? A Dissection of Daily Anger
Best Project Involving Language: Erin Farquhar - Re-inventing the Trickster: A Nuanced Archetype