High-impact practice, meet high-impact students.
On Friday, April 24, the School of Science and Technology opened the doors to the annual Science, Technology and Research Symposium, better known as STaRS. The annual event gives Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) students a stage to do what they do best: think critically, solve problems and share the work that shaped their academic journey.
STaRS offers GGC students a dedicated space to showcase undergraduate research and illustrate the outcomes of this high-impact practice, from reflective thinking and data analysis to oral communication and community building.
Held throughout the Donald K. Balfour II Health & Sciences Building, the event featured activities, demonstrations and poster presentations across science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Graduate school recruiters were also on site to discuss options for continuing academic studies after graduation. Students showcased their projects to peers, staff and faculty as recognition for their hard work and contributions to their fields.
The event opened with a dean’s welcome, followed by poster presentations and a scavenger hunt, and concluded with a judging session and awards ceremony.
Faculty judges evaluated posters and projects and recognized outstanding student work through a Dean’s Award, honorable mentions and first through third place distinctions, each based on the impact and quality of the research presented.
“It’s a big celebration — this is a big day. This year’s event features nearly 100 posters and interactive displays across the building. But regardless of the outcome, you are already winning.” Dr. Joseph Ametepe, interim dean for the School of Science and Technology and professor of physics, said. “Your work here today is an achievement worth celebrating.”
Among the standout presentations was freshman Chloe Simon’s travel simulation game, a Python-based program that allows users to budget and simulate traveling to different destinations. The game includes currency conversion and realistic financial challenges. Blending financial literacy and storytelling, Simon developed the project independently with faculty guidance. She said she is excited to continue her programming coursework and hopes to take the project even further.
From programming and coding to research, drawings and live demos, STaRS had it all this year. A lasting testament to the unique talent of Grizzlies and their drive to push curiosity beyond the classroom, STaRS continues to shape the path of GGC’s students and inspires the next generation of researchers.
For more information about this event, visit the STaRS webpage.
By Laura Moscoso, student assistant, internal communications
