Penn State Altoona has a long tradition of offering its students opportunities that can’t be found at every college. One of those benefits is the chance for undergraduates to perform research.
With research available across nearly all academic fields, students have the chance to enhance their education, add critical thinking and other skills to their repertoire, and make lasting contributions to their disciplines. Research helps students stand out academically and prepares them for future careers, builds skill sets and confidence, and provides networking opportunities with experts in their field. “Research has created such a dynamic experience here at Penn State Altoona for me,” says Angela Spagnoli, a recent environmental studies graduate. “I’ve had so many wonderful projects, and my potential as a student has soared because of research.”
Every year, approximately 100 students obtain research or independent-study credits and another seventy receive stipends (up to $2500 annually) for their efforts. Overall, Penn State Altoona provides annually over $120,000 for student stipends and wages, with another $35,000 provided by industry partners; last summer, twelve students were supported by an eight-week summer REU (Research Experiences for Undergraduates) program, each receiving a $4,500 stipend. In addition to stipends, Penn State Altoona has budgeted $50,000 in support of students traveling on research and creative activity-related trips. With over $2M in active external grants, many Penn State Altoona faculty are able to independently support students for multiple years; many such students even begin their research experience in their freshman year.
Projects over the last year alone include: water quality analysis; the effects of viruses on flower pollen; tracking invasive mud snails; propulsion systems; car security; electricity; and rail safety. Students have presented their research, traveled nationally for conferences, and co-published their research in refereed journal articles. “I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had this opportunity,” states Benjamin Borst, an EMET graduate. “I understand that not all colleges offer students the ability to do undergraduate research, and I’m very grateful. It’s an amazing feeling to see my name on papers that have been published.”
Advancement of Penn State Altoona because of these programs and opportunities continue to make it an innovative and competitive campus and a source of pride for the local community.
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