The Center for Global and International Study at the University of Michigan (CGIS) and The College of Global Studies at Arcadia University hosted the first annual STEM Research Abroad Symposium last week on the University of Michigan Ann Arbor campus. This event gave select students a platform to present their research work in an academic and professional setting while promoting the opportunity for STEM research abroad for prospective Michigan students.
Three Michigan students who participated in summer research in London, Dublin, and Glasgow were recognized for their work and presented their projects over brunch to University of Michigan staff, faculty and students.
Cassidy Bouse-Eaton - Royal Veterinary College, England
Research Title: Long and short term walking activity prior to lameness in dairy cows
Claire Drebin - University College Dublin, Ireland
Research Title: Explaining Beer recommendations
James Seiner - University of Glasgow, Scotland
Research Title: Cosmological implications of a new theory of gravity
CGIS Director Michael Jordon convened the symposium sharing his excitement for the partnership and importance of study abroad and research in the undergraduate context. Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Education of Literature Science and Arts, Dr. Doreen Lawrence-Hughes, spoke on finding your passion and the importance of seeing it through. Dr. Jessie Guinn gave a brief introduction to the STEM programs before handing it over to Dr. Peter Adams to speak specifically on research opportunities with the University of Queensland. Dr. Adams encouraged a dialogue among tables by posing the question, “Why go abroad when you can do research right here?” This question created some lively discussion among the group on the many benefits of participating in research abroad which was strongly reinforced through the students presentations.
The students spoke on their research projects, their time inside and outside the lab, and their growth both academically and personally. Many highlighted the quality of instruction, the close relationships with faculty and their fellow researchers, and their immerse growth in their field of interest by being in a entirely new environment. We even heard that some will be listed as coauthors on forthcoming papers from their respective research groups.
We were overjoyed by the success of this event and are excited to already agree to host another next year with Michigan. This event exceeded our goal of students simply connecting with students and sharing their academic and personal experiences abroad. Thank you to all who made this event a success.