Topics ran the gamut at 37th annual Research Day

NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University Research Day presentations explored topics that ranged from streamlining industrial processes to studies on the mental health of caregivers and all disciplines in between.  The NSU Research Council presented the 37^th annual Research Day April 18 to showcase scholarly work and creative projects in face-to-face oral presentations and a poster session.  Participation was open to faculty, staff and both undergraduate and graduate students.

Presentations touched on the scientific, the humorous, the historic and the technological.

Zayne Talberg, a clinical psychology major from Pollock, shared research in the poster session that explored the correlation between depressive disorders and predicting social media addiction.

A group of students who participated in a recent service-learning trip to Nepal led by faculty Dr. Patrice Moulton and Dr. Shawn Wheat discussed experiences they encountered while conducting health screenings, as well as well research on feelings about arranged marriage.

Mia Speed, a fine and graphic arts major from Alexandria, talked about the emergence of conversation pits in mid-century modern architecture and the revival of conversation pits in modern home design.

Dozens of topics were discussed, such as cybersecurity awareness, best practices with Artificial Intelligence, young adult literature, biodegration of acetaminophen in freshwater microbes, the effects of singing before and during menstruation and presentations that addressed student academic success, mental health and retention.

Dr. Betsy Cochran is faculty coordinator for NSU’s Research Day.

Pictured:  Cassandra Hill, right, a social work major from Leesville, presented her research during the poster session of NSU’s Research Day. Hill’s topic is “Increasing Self-Care Among College Students to Support and enhance the College Experience.” Findings can help college students learn health coping skills to combat burnout, depression and anxiety.  She is pictured with her faculty sponsor Dr. Mary Anne Candley.