Open research project opportunities for AU undergraduates at research fair

By Rakiyah Lenon | Co-editor in chief

Augusta University’s Center for Undergraduate Research and Scholarship held a research fair for undergraduates on the Summerville campus Nov. 10 in an effort to inform students about the program.

A meet-and-greet with faculty was organized to allow students to learn of the various areas of research.

Representatives of research projects throughout the university included those in kinesiology, business, social science, neuroscience, mathematics, family medicine, cellular biology and communication. For many studies, students have the opportunity to be involved even if they have not had prior experience.

Melissa Knapp, CURS coordinator, spoke of the program’s role in helping students become familiar with research.  

“We help students get involved in undergraduate research, helping them learn about undergraduate research, what it’s like to be involved and the different projects or opportunities around campus,” she said.

Speaking of what faculty hope to accomplish, she said: “They’re looking to engage undergrads and help them come in and mentor them in their research.”

Knapp said that students could find skills learned in research useful regardless of major. She also said that students do not need to be enrolled in the honors program in order to join research opportunities.

“Research has so many benefits because you learn skills—mostly collaboration,” she said.

According to Knapp, participating in research is admirable on graduate and medical school applications as well as resumes. Students could be paid for their work as well.

After the meet and greet with faculty mentors, a panel of students involved in research answered questions from those who were interested and provided tips along the way.

Student panel from left to right, Reeya Patel, Gabriella Benavides, Olivia Feagler and Hisham Kashif answered questions from students about research in the Butler Room. (photo by Rakiyah Lenon)

Hisham Kashif, a cell and molecular biology major, said that learning outside of a given syllabus is one of the reasons he chose research.

“You can actually explore your own curiosities,” he said.

Kashif said that students should not worry about waiting to complete research until they have found the proper fit for them.

“Don’t be afraid to switch your research for valid reasons,” he said.

The student-led panel explained to students in attendance the importance of asking questions and maintaining a great relationship with their mentors.

“Know your limits and have open and honest and communication,” Kashif said.

Gabriella Benavides, a kinesiology major researching intermittent fasting in people with jobs that require athleticism, said that new students should grow comfortable staying in contact as necessary.

“Don’t be afraid to email your advisor,” said Benavides.

Benavides recommended that students find time to make sure they are able to study and complete tasks as a student.

“Learn your studying habits,” she said.

 “It can be very intimidating, but don’t let that stop you,” said Olivia Feagler, a psychology and pre-med major.

Fleager added that students should also speak with students in their area who can provide them with information that would assist them in their study.

“Talk to students who are in the lab,” she said.

On the same topic, Knapp added, “Communication is so important.”

Knapp told students that building relationships with mentors and others within their area of research would be helpful for references students might need in the future.

The panel reminded students to remember their obligations that come first, since research can take somewhere between two and 10 hours a week. Because of the time needed to complete research, it is not suggested that students take on the task of an immense number of credit hours for regular courses during the period of research study.

They additionally encouraged that students choose research they are interested in to make the time spent worthwhile.

Reeya Patel, a clinical research associate, graduated from AU last year and continues to work in research.

“If you are going to invest your time, make sure you enjoy it,” she said.

For undergraduates, there are a variety of spaces open to participate.

Sang-Ho Kwon, assistant professor in cellular biology and anatomy, is working on a study about cell communication and gene expression to see if that plays a role as to whether someone is susceptible to certain illnesses.

According to Kwon, an undergraduate “who is interested in biology” is much needed in the project.

Dawn Langley-Brady, assistant nursing professor and holistic nurse, is looking for a student who is interested in a research opportunity studying the uses of hyssop essential oil in hospice patients.

“The goal is to help people,” she said.

Dawn Langley-Brady is an aromatherapist and holistic nurse who recently obtained her Ph. D. last year. (photo by Rakiyah Lenon)

Julia ‘Quentin’ Davis, director of CURS, encouraged students who would like to take part in the program to inquire.

 “Just know that faculty want you there. We do have some great mentors,” she said.

Julia ‘Quentin’ Davis welcomed new faculty and spoke with students between the roundtable sessions. At top of page, attendants visited tables about research projects and spoke with mentors. (photos by Rakiyah Lenon)

Students can contact CURS on how they can become involved, in addition to learning about upcoming events. The CURS office is in room E-330 in Allgood Hall on the Summerville campus. Students can also visit https://www.augusta.edu/curs.

Contact Rakiyah Lenon at rlenon@augusta.edu.