The College of Science and Mathematics' Festival of Research was back at it this year, showcasing, as always, the fresh perspectives and deep dives into scientific queries by its students. Cassandra Poeppelman, now an experienced researcher, recalls her early days staring down the gauntlet of public speaking at the festival. "The excitement and enthusiasm of other presenters at the festival inspired me to take pride in my own work," she told Wright State University's newsroom, reminiscing about how the community's vibe turned her fear into a celebration of research.
An event where about 80 student presenters share their discoveries, the Festival of Research is more than a platform for academic growth—it's a networking hive, buzzing with future employers and corporate partners. Steven Higgins, Ph.D., the associate dean, highlighted the cross-disciplinary seed swapping that the festival is earmarked for; exchanging ideas that serve not just academia but the planet at large. Locally rooted, yet globally mindful, he said via Wright State University's newsroom, "The event provides the opportunity for students and faculty to learn more about the research that is happening across the college."
Sitting in the nexus between education and real-world application, the event also offers panels where students can directly interact with employers. They're not just practicing their spiel here; they're stepping stones for future employment, navigating the complex landscape of job-seeking with a little aid from those who know best.
Poeppelman's own journey through Wright State’s research environment has been shaping up to her aspirations in the biomedical sciences. With her Ph.D. in sight, she sees her path clearly—a fusion of clinical practice with research, aiming to further medical science. And if stories from the festival prove anything, it's that learning by doing not only builds skills but can embolden an individual to push their boundaries. She said in a statement to the Wright State University's newsroom, "Wright State’s research environment has given me the skills and confidence necessary to pursue a future in health care."
