Student Research Symposium Program Spring 2025

Can Kemer - “State Trifold Brochure” (poster session 2) I created a trifold brochure to promote Florida by showcasing its natural beauty, entertainment options, and cultural richness. One of the main highlights is Disney World, one of the most famous theme parks in the world. I also featured Florida’s stunning beaches, where visitors can enjoy the sun, swim, or try water sports. The brochure suggests taking a scenic drive to Key West as well—a special destination known for its beautiful sunsets and relaxing atmosphere. In addition to attractions and nature, I also included some of Florida’s traditional foods. For example, “Key Lime Pie” is a popular local dessert and an important part of the state’s culinary identity. Through this brochure, I aimed to present both the natural and cultural sides of Florida, and to inspire readers to experience an unforgettable vacation in the Sunshine State. Blayne Kolb - see Rueda de Leon - “Game Day Operations Internship” (session 14) Julius Krüger - “What Do We Really Expect From Democracy?” (session 16) For many people democracy is like the holy grail of political systems. And for good reasons, as for most of history and with some exceptions, in most countries in the world democracy has been a significant increase in freedom and quality of life for people. It became the central part of Western civilization and understanding of modern societies. However, I think it is fair to argue that democracy has a) vulnerabilities and thus threats and b) has so far not been close to reaching its ideal and potential. These threats are more prevailing than one may assume and rather than improving, Western democracies seem to have been hit recently and are struggling to even remain long fought for standards. On the basis of “Against Democracy” by renowned political scientist and author Jason Brennan, I question democracy and instruments. At the core of this research is the one big question – what do we really want from democracy? Do we just want the best-results-delivering-political system, which just happens to be democracy or do we want democracy at all cost, because we believe in its core idea and values so much. Only by understanding what we really want and expect from democracy, can we ultimately make improvements – or not. Allexis Lark - “Migraines” (session 1) “It’s estimated that up to 148 million people in the world suffer from chronic migraines” (American Migraine Foundation). Migraines have had an unfortunate impact on a vast amount of people in the world including myself, as well as my family members. Since I will be pursuing a career that can provide aid to victims of migraines, through various tailored treatments, I felt it appropriate to begin research towards this goal. “Migraines” is a research project focused on exploring the “how”, “what”, and “why” of migraines. Topics in this research include pathophysiology, the current treatment, and even possible non-pharmaceutical approaches that can be implemented by a physical therapist to help those suffering from migraines. Research indicates that physical therapists who can identify musculoskeletal dysfunctions, vestibular symptoms and postural control impairment can aid in better quality of life for individuals living with migraines. Interestingly enough, Botox, typically used for cosmetic means, can also be used to treat migraines. This project aims to examine the ways in which physical therapists can help those affected by migraines.

Tristan Liebenberg - “The Impact of Birth Order on Conscientiousness, Neuroticism, and Goal Orientation” (poster session 1) This study examines the influence of birth order on conscientiousness, neuroticism, and goal orientation. It investigates how sibling position may shape personality traits and achievement motivation. Prior research suggests that firstborns tend to be more conscientious and achievement- driven, where-as laterborns may have higher neuroticism and a preference for learning-oriented goals due to differing parental expectations. This study utilizes a survey-based methodology, recruiting 100 undergraduate students to complete validated personality and achievement measures, including the Big Five Inventory (BFI-44) and the Achievement Goal Questionnaire- Revised (AGQ-R).This study predicts that firstborns will score higher in conscientiousness due to increased responsibilities. Laterborns are expected to exhibit higher levels of neuroticism, as they may experience greater instability and reduced parental investment. Additionally, firstborns are anticipated to adopt performance-oriented achievement goals, while laterborns will prioritize learning-oriented goals, focusing on mastery and self-improvement.These findings contribute to ongoing discussions on individual differences, personality psychology, and achievement motivation. John Lipscomb - “Doctor Black Father of MVC” (session 3) Dr. William Henry Black was the first President of Missouri Valley College. However he was much more than just a president at a small town college. During his years of service to Missouri Valley College he was known as more than a president to the students and community surrounding the school. He spent his life attached to the Cumberlands Presbyterian Church, first starting in Pennsylvania and then moving to St. Louis. After moving to St Louis, he took the job as Missouri Valley colleges first president in 1889. This was the beginning of a complete uprising for the school itself. He started with only eight instructors and not a single building; in his 37 years of service he saw the school rise to 33- instructors and eight buildings. Dr Black was revered throughout the country for his literary works in Christian literature. Natasha Louw - “Fractal Geometry and its Effects on Human Movement Patterns” (session 9) This study will explore the potential of fractal geometry to advance human movement patterns, focusing on enhancing performance, diagnostics, and adaptability across various physical contexts. By examining the complex patterns inherent in human movement patterns, fractal analysis provides unique insights into motor control, variability, and adaptability. The question whether human movement patterns can be advanced using fractal geometry will be addressed within the paper while viewing the possibilities of fractal analysis in fields ranging from sports biomechanics and rehabilitation to neurological diagnostics. The use of fractal geometry may be proven useful in improving performance metrics, detecting early signs of physical/neurological disorder, and could even contribute to personalised training programs. The goal is to make use of existing research to seek ways to optimize fractal geometry in improving human motion and to offer improvement in both health and athletic performance.

Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online