Graduates and undergraduates displayed their research presentations at the 12th annual Student Research and Creative Works Symposium held on Friday in the University Student Union’s Grand Salon.

Students had the choice to present an oral or poster board presentation about research that was completed within different academic fields. The event allowed both graduate and undergraduate students to participate on a first-come, first-serve basis. All presentations were judged, and 10 were picked to continue on to a statewide competition.

There were 140 students present for the daylong event. CSUN Provost Harry Hellenbrand attended the event and spoke briefly. Hedy Carpenter, assistant director of the graduate programs, helped coordinate the event that helps students gain the experience of how to make research presentations.

The event is intended to prepare students for the professional world by allowing them to present academic research in a professional setting.

“I get students to begin to get a feel for presenting their research in an academic study, so they are able to build experience,” said Carpenter.

?”This program enhances a student’s academic experience. We have tried to mimic a professional conference so when they do go they feel at ease.” ?

Students who wished to do an oral presentation had to fulfill a ten-minute minimum, followed by a three to four minute question and answer session. Those who created a poster board presentation displayed their research inside the Grand Salon while judges walked around and asked questions pertaining to the research.

The judges asked many questions about each study to insure that each participant was capable of answering questions about research on a professional level.

Arnold Bae, a psychology major, did a research study on different memory techniques to improve test scores. Bae said he saw the symposium as a great opportunity to not only prepare for the professional world, but to view different styles of research presentations.

“It has been an enlightening experience not only for school but for work,” said Bae. “Being around so many different styles is great. It is a whole different environment then just being in the classroom.”

???Different departments participated in the event. Poster board displays ranged from research on ground squirrels to the meaning behind an individual’s tattoo. ?

The symposium was not only a great opportunity for those who participated, but it was a chance for other students to see how students perform academic studies. Shannon Proctor, a psychology major, attended the symposium as a class assignment. Proctor said she was able to benefit from learning by seeing.

“It is good because this is what we are working on in class right now, so it is good to see what is organized and what is not,” said Proctor.

Many that entered the event said they felt the experience was something that all students should look into doing.

Ani Tarpinian, a graduate student, said she felt that this event helped her to achieve the experience she needed. Tarpinian is studying for a master’s degree in consumer sciences.

“I am doing my thesis right now so this has really helped,” said Tarpinian “This is a great way to get experience for undergrads.”

Bae also encouraged undergraduates to take part in next year’s symposium. Bae advises students not be afraid to seek help with any academic research.

“I would recommend it to all students to participate, and ask for guidance from a trusted professor,” Bae said.

Next year’s symposium information can be found online and the spots for presenters are limited, so students are asked to sign up soon.