As Summer 2024 unfolds, the Office of Engaged Learning is driving forward multiple programs and initiatives that support undergraduate research, foster student connections, and nurture academic growth. Here are some key highlights:
The OEL and Dedman College Department of Statistics and Data Science hosted their second annual summer Data Science Hackathon on June 28 and 29. This event brought together undergraduates from the “Data Science for Social Good” NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates and Summer Research Intensive as well as graduate students from the Masters of Science in Data Science program. Working in teams over a 24-hour period, 18 students tackled complex datasets to extract valuable insights around the theme of “happiness”. Special thanks go to Dr. Jon Carman (Office of the Chaplain), Dr. Adam Scott Neal (Office of Engaged Learning) and Dr. Monnie McGee (Dedman College Department of Statistics and Data Science) for their expertise. Additional thanks to Dr. Eric Godat (Office of Information and Technology) and Duwani Gonzalez and Kevin Wang (PhD Candidates at SMU) for their coaching support and Kelly Chandrapal (OEL) for organizing the event. Finally, another special thanks go to Dr. Stephen Robertson (Dedman College Interdisciplinary Institute) and Dr. Dustin Grabsch (Office of General Education), and Dr. Lynne Stokes (Professor Emeritus, Dedman College Department for Statistics and Data Science) for judging the competition.
Students in the Summer Research Intensive are hard at work on projects for their faculty mentors. Each week they also attending professional development workshops that focus on research related skill sets with Dr. Adam Scott Neal (OEL). In these highly interactive workshops, students are developing their communication skills by learning about storytelling, presentation structure and aesthetics, elevator pitches, and networking. The SRI program will culminate in a Three Minute “Thesis” competition on July 25, 2-5pm in the Hughes-Trigg Chamber. All are invited to attend!
The SMU Pathways to Business and Industry (PBI) initiative, under the leadership of Alisha Bailey (OEL), has been working closely with university service partners and academic departments over the summer to launch new programs and events for the upcoming fall and spring semesters. PBI students can anticipate engaging workshops focused on certifications in business, finance, and Microsoft Office. Additionally, they will have access to professional development workshops hosted by the UAC, Hegi Family Career Center, and Office of Engaged Learning. Stay tuned for the “Introduction to PBI Red, Blue, and YOU!” podcast episode later in July.
The Mustang Mentors Peer-Mentoring Program is preparing to welcome a full cohort of mentors and mentees this fall. The Mustang Mentors Core Team, headed by Olivia Prioleau (OEL), has been strategic and resourceful in recruiting students over the summer. The core team’s spheres of influence include First-Generation Initiatives, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Student Success and Inclusive Excellence, the University Advising Center and Transfer Office, the Office of Engaged Learning, and Residential Life and Housing.