Penn State Brandywine’s student engagement expo, held April 9 in the campus gymnasium, showcased the academic, co-curricular and experiential work of more than 100 student presenters, writes Christina Billie for Penn State Brandywine.

Students displayed a wide variety of work created as part of a class, internship, research project or student organization during the 2023-24 academic year, including:

• Research projects in astronomy, biology, chemistry, cybersecurity, civic engagement, Earth science, engineering, human development and family studies and psychology.
• Studio art classes
• Internships in cybersecurity, human development and family studies, and information sciences and technology.
• Student clubs and organizations, including the Brandywine Event & Activities Student Team (BEAST), Brandywine Benefitting THON, Lion Ambassadors, Multicultural Club, Residence Life and Student Government Association.
• On-campus student employment with the Center for Social Impact, Student Affairs and the Brandywine LaunchBox.

Natasha Agape, a third-year biology major, presented her work on flavonoids with partner Ndella Jagne, a fourth-year biology major.

“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity I had to present my research at the student engagement expo this year,” she said. “It’s given me a lot more confidence in my own abilities and knowledge in my field of study,” Agape said.

Jagne noted how her experience with this research has helped her realize what she wants to do after she graduates.

“My experience in the lab helped me solidify what I want to do in the future and is preparing me for the professional world, which is what I’m excited for,” she said.

Nearly 300 people were in attendance, including fellow Brandywine students, faculty, staff and family members.

Khaleelah Hamm and Jannat Chowdhury, third- and fourth-year psychology majors, presented their work on the campus climate for students of color. Both students commented on how insightful it was to see other students’ research.

“It was really interesting seeing the work of other students on campus. It was very insightful,” Hamm said. “I’m also happy to see the amount of people who came out to support us students who have been conducting our research all year.”

Chowdhury added, “I’m glad I had the opportunity to not just present my research but also learn about the research conducted by students in different fields across campus.”

Jim Berkey, associate professor of English and associate director of academic affairs, was one of the judges for the expo. He commented on how impressed he was with the students who presented, and he’s also looking forward to collaborating with other departments in the future.

“I was really impressed with the thoughtfulness of the presentations and the originality of the students’ ideas when it came to their research,” Berkey said.

Read more about the Expo and see some of the exhibits at Penn State Brandywine.