Utah State celebrates Undergraduate Research Month
The month of April is now being recognized as Undergraduate Research Month at Utah State University as a way to showcase undergraduate students in their research achievements.
Joyce Kinkead, vice provost for Undergraduate Studies and Research, is in charge of this new program and said it is not necessarily unique to USU.
“Most major research universities tend to celebrate student research,” she said. “It used to be something USU showcased on a single day. This is the first time USU has turned it into a month-long event.”
Stephanie Chambers is an undergraduate research fellow and assistant to Kinkead. She said Undergraduate Research Month is basically a culmination of events showcasing projects students have worked on throughout the school year and previous school years.
“It’s an opportunity to pat the students on the back and show what USU has been working on.”
Kinkead said all undergraduate students are eligible to apply to be showcased, and this year approximately 50 students will present their projects. She said students just need a faculty mentor to approve their project. Kinkead said this step aids in quality control of the projects.
According to the Vice President of Research Web site at www.usu.edu/vpr, “The student showcase is an annual symposium to showcase outstanding work done by students on research, scholarly and creative projects. The program consists of oral presentations, poster sessions, exhibitions and recitals.”
According to the Web site, the showcase will feature outstanding original work by USU’s best and brightest students.
Kinkead said there is even a creative writing contest being showcased.
“Research here at USU is recognized as an umbrella term which includes scholarship and creative activity as well as lab research,” she said.
Chambers said activities will be going on all month throughout the university. The main attraction will be the student showcase on April 18. She said this is an opportunity for students to practice showing their work and answering questions about their projects. The showcase will be held in the Taggart Student Center in the Sunburst Lounge and Colony Rooms from noon until 5 p.m.
Kinkead said student research is vital because it is hands-on learning. She said it aids in the application of knowledge in a student’s field of study.
“Being actively involved in research gives students experiences that make them competitive for graduate school and professional opportunities and employment,” she said.
Matt Spencer, a senior majoring in biology, will be one of the students showcased on April 18.
“I think undergraduate research has been the most valuable learning experience I have ever had,” he said. “Being involved in research at USU has given me skills, confidence and opportunities I never could have gained in a classroom.”
Chambers said she intends to promote student awareness about Undergraduate Research Month. She said students should expect to see a calendar of events posted around campus.