FURSCA projects show diversity, creativity
By Jake Weber
Serving as both College archivist and director of the Foundation for Undergraduate Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity, or FURSCA, Elizabeth Palmer, has plenty to do. Yet she and FURSCA Associate Director Renee Kreger added the role of “research subject” for a student’s kinesiology FURSCA project.
“We did workouts in hopes of improving our balance and grip strength, as well as our motivation and sleep quality,” Palmer explained, noting that many faculty and staff also supported the project. “It’s always exciting to be part of a research project, especially when you get in a good workout three days a week!”
With 41 student participants, the FURSCA 2023 summer program was significantly larger than the past few years. In terms of quality, diversity and creativity of the projects chosen for the program, Palmer deemed the year a great success.
“We had students doing everything from immunotherapy drug research to statistical analysis of men’s soccer wages to writing a play about vampires and just about everything in between,” she enthused.
“This year’s students were also particularly supportive of each other. With such a huge range of disciplines, I think students have the opportunity to learn from each other, meet new people they otherwise wouldn’t have met, and gain more respect for each other and the work they are each trying to accomplish.”
All 2023 summer program participants will present their work at the Elkin R. Isaac Research Symposium at the end of the 2023-24 academic year.
“It’s always interesting for us to see what additional research has been accomplished and how the students’ presentations improve from the summer,” Palmer said. “I’m also curious to see which summer ’23 FURSCA students present their research at national conferences in their field.
“And of course, I am very excited to read all of the new proposals that will be submitted this year. Our students are so smart and incredibly creative. I can’t wait to see what will happen next.”