DSU At The National Conference On Undergraduate Research (NCUR)
Basbo Ayelazono and Vanessa Ocansey, two of the winners of Dakota State University’s 2024–2025 Student Research Initiative Award (SRI), were selected to present their research at this year’s National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) in Pittsburgh from April 7th to April 9th. Accompanied by Dr. Andrew Sathoff, the undergraduate research coordinator at DSU, the students joined over 4,000 undergraduates from across the country to showcase their work on a national platform.
This three-day event was nothing short of inspiring and exciting.
Monday:
After arriving in Pittsburgh and checking into the hotel, which just a short walk from the conference center, the group picked up their badges and headed to the welcome talks. The day’s events included a welcome talk, an artistic presentation, “Elevating the Arts,” where participants shared their work and the inspiration behind it. Pieces ranged from 3D floral installations to moving tributes to Black history. Later, students majoring in contemporary dance took the stage to perform and explain the stories behind their choreography, creating a powerful blend of motion and meaning.
Tuesday:
The conference hall buzzed with opportunity as graduate schools and biotech companies from across the country gathered for a mini career fair called “Future Fair Open”. Students engaged with recruiters, asking questions and exploring possibilities to help in deciding their plans after graduation.
Some students also began presenting their posters that day, while others explored the exhibit spaces and prepared for their sessions. The evening wrapped up with a conference social at the Heinz History Center, a five-story museum filled with interactive exhibits, including art made from Heinz ketchup bottles!
Wednesday:
Presentation day! Basbo and Vanessa shared their research titled “Survey of Prairie Lakes for Microplastics in Eastern South Dakota” during a 50-minute poster session, which turned into over an hour of engaging conversation with attendees. With more than 80 posters being presented simultaneously, it was especially rewarding to see so many people interested in DSU’s work. Basbo and Vanessa explained their research to a wide range of students, faculty, and professionals, receiving both thoughtful questions and valuable feedback.
The day ended on a celebratory note with dinner alongside Dr. Sathoff, which marked an evening of reflection and pride after a successful presentation.
This trip marks a major milestone for DSU, as it was the first time students from the university were sponsored to present at NCUR. It’s a promising sign of the growing research culture on campus and the incredible potential of DSU’s undergraduate scholars.
