Penn State Abington student researchers delivered their well-practiced elevator pitches on April 12 at the annual ACURA (Abington College Undergraduate Research Activities) exhibition. About 60 students presented 31 projects, answering questions from faculty judges about the process and results, according to Ann Schmiedekamp, the professor of physics who coordinates ACURA.
The tools students develop and refine through ACURA can transform their professional and personal lives. They experience academic rigor at a graduate school level and commit to a long-term project, according to Elizabeth Hughes, an assistant professor of sociology and a faculty mentor for an award-winning project.
“Outside the classroom, qualitative interview skills help you communicate more effectively. You are listening for key words and ideas and following up to get a sense of people’s reality….
