The STAR Scholars Program celebrated its 18th year with a Scholars Summer Showcase at Bossone today, capping three months of intensive study and spotlighting students’ mentored research. The event was attended by hundreds, including faculty, staff, students, and parents. The day-long showcase featured a poster contest judged by faculty and staff from throughout Drexel University, and a Quick Pitch Competition.
Materials engineering students Emma Clancy (l) and Cyra Gallano
Some 173 STAR Scholars completed projects this summer that contribute to their knowledge base, guided by faculty mentors. First-year engineering students presented on Monitoring Air Quality Metrics Using Kites; LiF Batteries and the Hall Effect; and an Actuation Device for Deep Vein Thrombosis, among many other projects.
In addition, three engineering students participated in the iSTAR international program, studying at Ben Gurion University of the Negev in Israel.
The event gathered over 40 first-year students from the College of Engineering, as well as students from the Westphal College of Media Arts & Design, the LeBow College of Business, the Close School of Entrepreneurship, the College of Arts & Sciences, the College of Computing & Informatics, the College of Nursing & Health Professions, the College of Medicine, the School of Biomedical Engineering, the School of Education, and the Pennoni Honors College.
“What a wonderful program. We should have one of these events every week,” said Sharon L. Walker, PhD, dean of the College of Engineering. “It’s so great talking with these students and seeing how enthusiastic they are, and hearing all about their research.”
Since 2002, more than 1,800 Drexel students have participated in the STAR and iSTAR programs.
The event is hosted by the Office of Undergraduate Research and Pennoni Honors College.