From just a handful of student presentations to dozens of research projects, Los Medanos College’s 10th annual STEM Research Symposium marks a milestone in showcasing student innovation.
The annual event will highlight student research across science, technology, engineering and mathematics, giving participants the opportunity to present their work and connect with professionals in their fields.
The symposium will take place Friday, May 1, from 12 to 4 p.m. in the Student Union Conference Center.
“The symposium is an opportunity for students to share their research and go through the full scientific process from developing a question to presenting results to the broader community,” said Professor Mindy Capes.
Over the years the event has grown significantly. What began with just three student presentations has expanded to 57 poster presentations last year, with organizers expecting even more participation this year as interest in student research continues to grow.
The symposium is majorly supported by the MESA Program, which helps coordinate the event and prepare students for presenting their work.
“We organize the symposium and support students with poster preparation and presentation,” said Antoinette Corbin, MESA director. “It gives students the opportunity to showcase their work and build communication skills.”
Along with presentations, the event will include networking opportunities, allowing students to connect with professionals and learn more about potential career paths. Organizers say these connections can help students better understand their future goals and the pathways needed to reach them.
For many students, the symposium is a key step in their academic and professional development. Research experience not only strengthens resumes and transfer applications but also allows students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom.
“Student research sets our LMC students apart, it gives them experience that’s critical for their future as STEM professionals,” said Capes.
Student presenters will showcase a wide range of topics. mechanical engineering major Sheryl Madlangbayan is studying an ionospheric phenomenon known as Strong Thermal Emission Velocity Enhancement (STEVE), which scientists still do not fully understand and is not considered a typical aurora.
“It felt like solving a mystery,” Madlangbayan said. “Like being Sherlock Holmes and trying to figure out what’s causing it.”
Madlangbayan said the research challenged her to improve her coding and data analysis skills while exploring her interests in space science and engineering.
Biology major Hannah Luna’s project focuses on how different lighting conditions affect the eating habits of hornworms, an experience that aligns with her goal of becoming a veterinarian.
“I want to be a veterinarian, so working with live organisms helps me gain experience,” said Luna.
Luna said presenting her research allows her to share her work with others while also gaining insight from more experienced students and professionals in her field.
Organizers say the symposium is open to all students and community members, regardless of their background in STEM, and encourages attendees to stop by and support student researchers.
“This is their day to shine,” Capes said. “it’s my favorite day of the year.”
