Students spend hours conducting research for their classes every term.
They interview experts, check out books and then compose a research paper.
For most students, all of the work is done to get a decent grade and then repeated with the next assignment.
The Southern Oregon Arts and Research conference provides students with an opportunity to present their hard work and research to the community every year.
The three day event includes ongoing, concurrent activities including poster and podium presentations, panel discussions, demonstrations, and live performances in music, drama and dance.
“Few institutions focus on giving undergrad students an opportunity to present their research,” said Deborah d’este Hofer, Southern Oregon University Grants Administrator. “Students get to collaborate and engage one-on-one.”
Activities include tours of 15 campus laboratories and studios allowing visitors an in-depth look at where and how faculty and students conduct research and create art. Participants will also get a chance to visit the Student Film Festival and a drumming demonstration by SOU’s Percussion Ensemble along with panel discussions, presentations by University Seminar students, and a replica of Leonardo da Vinci’s Cam-Hammer created by Osher Lifelong Learning Institute students.
According to Dean Paul Adalian, 160 students have already applied to participate in the conference.
Applications for this year’s conference will be accepted until Friday, April 29.
The applications are free and open to the public.
“Our role isn’t to judge or jury, but to help students,” Hofer said. “We want to help students to present in the best way possible.”
The conference provides students with an opportunity to present at a professional conference, gain experience in public speaking and gain valuable resume material.
“It’s a great opportunity for students to express what they’ve done,” Adalian said. “We’re impressed with the result of student work.”
Students interested in applying should visit www.sou.edu/soar or call (541) 552-6816.
