BGSU Undergraduate Symposium for Research and Scholarship sets record for student participation

More than 260 students registered for the Undergraduate Symposium for Research and Scholarship

As a key part of the nationally recognized student experience at Bowling Green State University, relevant undergraduate research, scholarly and creative activities reached new heights during this academic year.

The University’s Undergraduate Symposium for Research and Scholarship, held on April 12, set a new record for student participation in the event.

In total, more than 218 undergraduate students from 34 different disciplines presented 128 posters on a wide range of scholarly topics, with another 44 delivering 30 oral presentations in a variety of disciplines.

The event is also believed to have set a new record for attendance, an indication of continued momentum for student opportunities at BGSU.

“Engaging in original research and contributing to knowledge-building offers students invaluable opportunities to develop their skills, deepen their understanding of their field and form meaningful connections," said Dr. Glenn Davis, interim provost and senior vice president and vice president for student engagement and success at BGSU. "We were thrilled to see so many outstanding BGSU students complete projects across such a diverse range of topics.”

BGSU offers all undergraduates from all disciplines the chance to try faculty-mentored research and other scholarly and creative activities during their time at the University, allowing them to experience a new side of their degree program that refines their expertise in the field.

Students are afforded the chance to learn with and from a faculty mentor who helps guide their projects, while the University provides support in the form of funding, travel grants, skill development and three annual events to showcase work, providing key vehicles to gain crucial experience prior to graduating.

Adriane Straube, a biological sciences student whose research into aquaponic crop production under the tutelage of Dr. Kevin Neves was honored with a poster award, said undergraduate research proved helpful when looking toward the future.

"I was pretty hard-set on doing saltwater work before I started projects that were more freshwater-based like the aquaponics system, but I think the chance to do this research helped me so much when applying to grad schools and internship opportunities," Straube said. "In general, I think it’s so cool that BGSU helps students steer their own projects like this. It’s such a unique opportunity."

For many students, completing a research, scholarly or creative project as an undergraduate informs their next step, whether it is their career of choice or pursuing an advanced degree program.

Dr. Cordula Mora, Center for Undergraduate Research and Scholarship director, said the quality of projects at this year’s symposium showed the preparedness of BGSU students as they tackled their chosen topics.

“It is truly incredible to see what our students are capable of accomplishing, which is a testament to the value of a BGSU education,” Mora said. “We’re so thankful to have expert faculty and advisors at BGSU who dedicate their time to guide students as they become the next generation of researchers, scholars and artists in their respective fields.”