NEW YORK, NY – As basketball fans descended on Madison Square Garden for the high stakes of the BIG EAST Men’s Basketball Conference Championship this past March 16, a different kind of competition was unfolding within the iconic venue. The third annual BIG EAST Undergraduate Research Symposium, a gathering that underscores the conference’s commitment to academic excellence alongside athletic prowess, showcased the innovative work of student researchers from across its 11 member institutions.
Among them, six Villanova University Undergraduate Research Fellows stood out, presenting their findings on topics ranging from astrophysics to environmental science and pediatric oncology care. These students, selected through a rigorous process at their university, represent a growing trend in undergraduate education: the emphasis on research as a pivotal component of the collegiate experience.
Catherine Stecyk, Director of the Center for Research and Fellowships (CRF) at Villanova, highlighted the importance of such opportunities. “Participating in undergraduate research lays a crucial foundation for the next generation of scholars and innovators,” she said. This sentiment reflects a broader understanding in academia today—that hands-on research experiences are invaluable in preparing students for future challenges, whether in further study or the workforce.
The symposium is not just a showcase but a competition, with presentations judged on various criteria including content, presentation style, and the researcher’s ability to respond to questions. Such an environment not only tests students’ knowledge and communication skills but also their ability to think critically under pressure.
The work of Villanova’s representatives is particularly noteworthy. Jake Caselli worked under the mentorship of Grant Berry, PhD, exploring the neurophysiological correlates of cognitive control and whether individuals’ perceptions of their performance match up with reality. This research has implications for understanding how we learn and make decisions, potentially influencing educational and psychological practices.
Jenelle Maldonado, mentored by Kelly Hambleton, PhD, focused on refining measurements in eclipsing binary systems—a project that could aid in calibrating tools used in astrophysics to measure distances across the universe. This kind of research is fundamental to our understanding of space and our place within it.
Shealyn Murphy, guided by Isabel Hong, PhD, investigated sediment deposits from paleotsunamis at Willapa Bay, WA, offering insights that could improve our understanding of ancient natural disasters and their impacts on human societies.
Peter Scarperi, working with Meredith McKenzie Greenle, PhD, RN, delved into the perspectives of pediatric oncology nurses on palliative and end-of-life care, shedding light on the emotional and ethical dimensions of healthcare.
Finally, Emma Spangler and Mikaela Anthony, under Steven Goldsmith, PhD, examined the degradation, toxicity, and environmental impact of macroplastics in streams. Their work contributes to the urgent conversation on plastic pollution and its effects on ecosystems.
These projects exemplify the diverse and impactful research endeavors undertaken by undergraduates. They also highlight the significant role of faculty mentors in guiding young researchers, providing expertise, and instilling a passion for inquiry.
The BIG EAST Undergraduate Research Symposium, occurring alongside a major sporting event, serves as a powerful reminder of the multifaceted mission of universities today: to foster not just athletic achievement but intellectual curiosity and innovation. In doing so, it prepares students like those from Villanova to tackle the complex problems of tomorrow, armed with knowledge, skill, and a drive to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world at large.
As these young researchers return to their studies and onward to their future careers, the experience of participating in such a symposium—and the recognition their work has garnered—will undoubtedly serve as a cornerstone of their academic and professional development.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and Microsoft Start.