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Mila Bales
Scientific Minds Feast at Research Luncheons
Scientific minds feast once a month at Hickman Research Luncheons in the Hefferlin Amphitheater of Hickman Science Center at Southern Adventist University. Southern’s science professors invite students to bring their latest research findings and delve into questions with the group. These events provide opportunities for students to develop presentation skills and gain valuable feedback from professors and peers.
“We want our students to not only become comfortable with talking about their research, but also learn how to receive constructive criticism from others,” said Matthew Duffy, Ph.D., professor in the Chemistry Department and coordinator of the luncheons. Many science students will attend conferences later in their careers, and these meetings will help prepare them to interact with other professionals in their field.
The monthly luncheons are also excellent occasions for individuals to collaborate on interdisciplinary topics. Attendees from different fields mingle as they discuss the results and direction of research projects while exchanging suggestions and ideas. During one meeting, a biology student explored the nature of dinosaur teeth. Another month, a computer science student demonstrated the artificial intelligence of a camera as it monitored moving objects.
“I’ve seen students gain confidence as they learn how to present some big concepts to a diverse group,” said Duffy. “One presenter had a big smile on her face when we told her she should be a teacher. She did so well!”
Southern Adventist University | September 2024
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