Higher Ed Utah

(Megan Gessel, Daily Utah Chronicle) — About three dozen students presented research findings to state legislators Tuesday in a bid to bring more attention to higher education. Featuring student-researchers from both the U and Utah State University, the annual event also aimed to give students an opportunity to articulate their discoveries.

Jessica Robinson, a senior in human development and family studies, said she has been researching how mothers promote the sometimes-conflicting values of self-esteem and good morals in children. The legislators she met with were receptive to her research, including her district representative.

“He was really positive … They’ve all seemed supportive, and that was encouraging to our projects,” she said. “I feel like having seen what we do was impressive [to the legislators].”

Held in the Rotunda at the Capitol, the event showcased 26 student research projects created by 30 U students, as well as a few dozen presentations from USU students. True to the event’s name, Research Posters on the Hill, students used posters with graphs, abstracts and other graphics to visually represent their findings. Students were also available to explain their research methods and discoveries in person.

At the start of the event by Lt. Gov. Greg Bell and the U’s new president David Pershing addressed students.

Sen. Luz Robles, from the 1st District, said she was pleased to see students making legislators aware of the work they are doing.

“It’s important for legislators to see what we’re investing in with higher education, since we’re making decisions and directing funding,” she said. “This is exciting … it’s great to see all the students putting so much into their work,” she said.