Empowering Fort Lewis College Students Through Undergraduate Research
Key Ideas
  • Fort Lewis College emphasizes undergraduate research across various departments, offering students hands-on experiences and close collaborations with faculty.
  • Students engage in research projects ranging from STEM fields to arts and humanities, allowing them to explore their interests and develop critical skills.
  • Projects like hydrogen fuel cell research and genetic studies offer students the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in their respective fields.
  • Through mentorship, funding opportunities, and a supportive community, students at Fort Lewis College are encouraged to pursue research initiatives and achieve their academic and personal goals.
Fort Lewis College in Durango, United States, places a strong emphasis on undergraduate research, providing students with valuable opportunities for academic exploration and personal growth. Led by Undergraduate Research Coordinator Dr. Christine Smith, the college fosters a culture of research collaboration where students work closely with faculty members in various departments. From Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) projects to arts and humanities investigations, students engage in diverse research endeavors tailored to their interests. Notably, senior chemistry major Kenny Drbohlav conducts research on producing hydrogen for fuel cells, while cellular and molecular biology major Janelle Jim explores drought responses in plants using advanced genetic techniques. Students like Drbohlav and Jim benefit from hands-on lab experiences, mentorship, and community support that propel their research goals. Additionally, the college offers funding opportunities for students to cover research expenses and attend conferences. Despite challenges in finding suitable projects or mentors, Dr. Smith encourages students to persist and seek guidance, highlighting the rewarding journey of undergraduate research at Fort Lewis College.
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