Summer science research focus of Sigma Xi forum

Jennifer Hoehn
News Editor

Exhibit A Sophomore Ala Iaconi presents the research she did with E.Colli at the Sigma Xi forum. Iaconi studied at the University of Wisconsin over the summer.

   Twenty-five sophomores, juniors and seniors showcased their summer projects Thursday, Oct. 23 at Sigma Xi Scientific Research Society's annual summer research and internship forum in Boyd Science Center.

   The forum brought students together from a number of different majors, including the physical and life sciences, social sciences and computer science, to present posters and talk about their experiences.

   Students presented work done at a number of different universities, state and national parks, and companies across the United States.

   Those involved said that such programs allow valuable real-world training.

   Megan Strahota, a senior computer science and business double major, interned with Intelligent Direct in Pennsylvania working to develop a database for the company.

   "I was actually treated like a full-time employee," Strahota said.

   In addition, biology professor and Sigma Xi adviser Jim Dooley said that while previous generations of interns may have merely stuffed envelopes, students today can get a true feel for their area of research or work.

   "Now you can get paid really well and get real experience," Dooley said.

Brooke Handley, a senior environmental science major, spent her summer at Yellowstone National Park as a volunteer park ranger. Handley said that although she was a volunteer, she had the same responsibilities as other rangers at the park. Handley worked at a desk answering visitor questions and also lead interpretive programs.

   "The best part was learning how to live away from home and finding what I want to do with my life," Handley said. "It was a life changing experience."

   Other students presented work done with faculty at Muskingum College. Heather Nees, a sophomore chemistry and conservation science double major, worked with chemistry professor Paul Szalay on a project to synthesize polyamides which could eventually be used as a form of water purification.

   Nees presented her work in Pittsburgh the previous weekend as part of a regional meeting of the American Chemical Society.

   The summer research and internship forum is held for two reasons, according to Dooley.

   "We want everyone in the community to see the professional training our students our experiencing," he said.

   In addition, Dooley hopes other students will become interested in doing summer research or internships.

   "A huge world of internships exists out there," Dooley said.

   Sigma Xi will also be hosting a program on how to locate and apply for internship and research experiences on Thursday, Nov. 20 in Boyd Science Center 336 for all interested students.

   Sigma Xi encompasses over 75,000 members and 500 chapters world-wide, according to the society's national Web site.

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