Cardinals Present Knowledge and Skills at End of Semester Showcases
As the end of another semester nears, now is the time that UIW students are given the opportunity to demonstrate and reflect on all that they’ve learned within their programs. Some are still in the midst of their studies, while others are preparing to cross the commencement stage and enter a new chapter.
On Monday, Nov. 27, the School of Mathematics, Science and Engineering hosted a Biology Research Symposium and Awards Ceremony. Students in the Research Methods in Cell and Molecular Genetics course were able to present their semester-long research projects to other students, faculty members and curious visitors.
"It is an exciting event for the students and faculty as it showcases all the students' hard work," shared Dr. Chistopher Pierce, associate professor of Biology and department chair. "Conducting scientific research and presenting the findings is an important skill for biology majors, and this course and research symposium allows all our majors to experience what it is like to present at a scientific conference."
Department faculty presented awards to three outstanding graduating seniors which included Aana Cristina Alverez, Kristina Arriaga and Emma Vequist who received two awards for her independent research project titled “Making the Cut: An Analysis of Regeneration in Lumbriculus variegatus.”
Pierce shared that he was proud to witness the hard work of faculty and staff who put on this event which was dedicated to supporting and celebrating the department’s students. "I am proud that we are elevating the University’s Strategic Priorities by supporting high-value student experiences that improve graduation rates by engaging students in research and providing an outlet for them to present their work."
In the same week, the School of Media and Design celebrated students in the Communication Arts department with its biannual COMM Extravaganza. The event held every semester celebrates students' academic achievements and creates an opportunity for students to enrich themselves in the program and showcase their knowledge and skills.
At the event, qualifying students were inducted into Lambda Pi Eta, the National Communication Association’s official honor society. Graduate students presented their thesis or capstone projects in front of dozens of guests consisting of their peers, mentors, family and community. Awards such as UIWtv’s recent Lone Star Emmy Award recognitions and the BEA Film and Video Competition were also celebrated.
"The Communication Arts faculty are proud of students' accomplishments including their commitment to create opportunities for fellow Communication Arts peers to gain professional communication skills and engage in leadership experiences," shared Dr. Carabajal. "We have a strong community in the department where students create a culture of belonging for each other. This event is one example of what our students do for each other, 'For Students, by Students'."
For many students who presented their research, this moment represented a milestone for them within their higher education journeys. Evelyn Torres, who presented her work at COMM Extravaganza, shared, "It was truly a special moment because I got to present hours of work that represented me and everything that I learned during my time in Communication Arts … I wish nothing but the best to my Communication Arts family, and I can't wait to graduate next week!"