At Chandler-Gilbert, we pride ourselves on experiential learning and student research opportunities. At most four-year universities, students may not have these hands-on research projects until their third or fourth year of school. However, experiential learning is part of every student’s experience at CGCC. Recently, two of our students exemplified these experiential learning and research principles at the Maricopa Student Research Conference. This event gives students the chance to present their original research in humanities and social-behavioral sciences, occupational education, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) in a conference setting.
Jeremy Mattas and Amber Toy both earned scholarships as a result of their research, highlighting the unique scholarship opportunities available to Maricopa Community Colleges students. Jeremy placed first in the Humanities and Social and Behavioral Sciences Oral Presentation category for his “Speculative Consequences of Transcendence and Immortality” presentation and received a $1,000 scholarship. Amber placed third in the S.T.E.M. Poster Session for her “Dying to Look Good” campaign and received a $500 scholarship.
Jeremy’s “Speculative Consequences of Transcendence and Immortality” presentation stemmed from his appreciation of life. He believes the lifespan of the average American is not enough time to accomplish everything they hope to achieve. Jeremy believes that advances in technology, partnered with making lifestyle changes, can extend our lifespans and improve our quality of life.
Amber’s “Dying to Look Good” campaign focused on personal care products used by millions of people every day. She presented tips and apps to check the toxicology ratings of chemicals in soaps, shampoos and other personal care products. Her goal was to teach others how to shop clean by finding healthier alternatives.
Congratulations, Jeremy and Amber, and thank you to our student research faculty members, Sujatha Krishnaswamy, Crystal Theaker and Paul Wren.
To learn more about the Maricopa Student Research Conference, visit https://www.estrellamountain.edu/conferences/student-conference.