Students, families, professors and alumni recently flooded the Natural Sciences Department in Jeffords for the fourth annual Research Fair highlighting original students research work on April 25.
Concluding with a department barbecue, the yearly showcase provided an upbeat environment as the semester draws towards a close.
“The energy was awesome. It gave students a chance to show off their work and feel they accomplished something, which is empowering,” said Biology Professor Christine Palmer, adding that the event brought together a crowd of more than 100 people from both near and far. “I think it was really fun for the alumni to see how dynamic things have become, and for the current students it was awesome to see how much pride people have in their school.”
Student presenter Rachel Orr discussed the academic gains she received from the event. Not only did she use the opportunity to share her work with others, but also to obtain valuable research presentation skill she will utilize in the future.
“The poster presentation themselves allowed us the opportunity to orally share with peers and the community our results and experiences,” said Orr, “From our presentation we gained skills on how to discuss science to all levels from the most educated, to small children.”
Science student Oliver Cunningham was also candid about his event remarks. Presenting his work for the first time in a professional academic environment, he said he felt well prepared and energized for his presentation.
“It being one of the first times I've presented research, it was invigorating as well as humbling to know that I had a project that was very interesting to others, as well as the in-depth research to back it up,” Cunningham said. “It not only boosted my confidence in the field of my research, but it helped me develop my ability to do said research as well as present it with a high level of authority.”
Both Cunningham and Orr agreed the event was a huge success and a great time for everyone involved. The two thanked the various professors within their department for equipping them with the skills necessary to complete professional research and present it to a wide audience.
“The professors in the Natural Sciences Department go above and beyond to help students be successful in their research and academics,” said Orr.