University Honors Program Student Theses and Projects

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/2097/42260

The University Honors Program (UHP) provides students a path for pursuing an elevated educational experience that includes honors courses, complementary resume-building, and a culminating Honors Project.

Honors projects are undertaken to showcase and enhance academic skills, reflect intellectual interests, and support future goals; and creative intellectual products and/or interdisciplinary inquiry are welcome. Students are also encouraged to publish or present their work in appropriate settings, including the option to archive their projects here in K-REx.

The UHP invites you to explore the projects collected below; they offer a great sampling of the kinds of work that Honors students undertake at K-State.

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 91
  • ItemOpen Access
    Investigating Darting Responses During Active Avoidance Learning in Rats
    (2025-12) Ness, Halle
    Previous research has shown that anxiety-related disorders, like Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), social anxiety, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), affect women more than men. Excessive fear and avoidance are common symptoms of these disorders, and studying these behaviors in rodents helps us gain a better understanding of these maladaptive behaviors. In rodent studies, fear responses are typically measured with “freezing,” depicted by no movement except for breathing. However, recent research has identified another fear-related behavior called “darting”, which is characterized by a rapid movement across the chamber reaching a velocity of greater than 23.5 cm/s and lasting a maximum of 1 second. Studies have reported that female rats exhibit four times more darting than male rats during fear conditioning, but this behavior has not yet been studied in the context of active avoidance tasks. In our lab, we use the platform-mediated active avoidance task (PMA) in which a rat learns to avoid a tone-signaled footshock by stepping onto a safe platform while also forgoing access to a food reward across 10 days of training. Most prior studies have used the PMA task when the animal learns alone. Our lab has recently modified this task to include a social condition where rats can learn the task together in a chamber divided by a transparent barrier, which is called social partner PMA. Each rat has access to their own platform, lever, and food dish. The main goal of my project was to determine whether darting is a common response under social vs. solitary PMA conditions and if females also exhibit darting more than males during PMA. Additionally, I assessed whether darting was correlated with other behaviors during PMA, such as freezing, time on the platform during the tone, and lever-pressing during the ITI.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Quantitative Imaging of Point-Like Targets
    (2024-12) Shepard, Jayci
    The inverse medium scattering problem has multiple important applications across various scientific domains, such as radar, sonar, and nondestructive testing. The goal of the project is to use scattered waves on a measured boundary to construct an imaging function capable of approximating the location and scattering strengths of point scatterers. The approach to this problem utilizes the sampling-type method developed by Dr. Nguyen and his collaborators, which is recognized for its speed and robustness against noisy data. I studied multiple equations in order to understand the construction and the proof behind the imaging function; some included the Sommerfield radiation condition and the Green function. Once given the scattered wave data and its normal derivative, the point’s location and scattering strengths can be determined. The wave-based imaging method determines that the point scatterers are located on a large domain, which is discretized by using a set of sampling points z. The imaging function will approximately indicate when points z reach the scatterers. Once z reaches a scatterer, the imaging function will output a numerical result greater than zero, and when it does not reach a scatterer, it will output zero. This result occurs due to the usage of the Bessel function in the imaging function, where the output peaks at z equaling the point and it quickly decays as the absolute value of z minus x approaches infinity. Now that the imaging function is proven to find the scatterer’s location, alternative equivalents are written to solve for the scattering strengths of the point scatterer. Using the imaging function, we reconstructed point-like targets while knowing their location and scattering strength to test the viability of the function. A percentage relative error was included in the estimation of the point scatterer location and strength. The process of reconstruction was repeated with differing points within the domain (-2,2)x(-2,2), as well as differing scattering strengths and noise levels. All results stayed at or below a 10 percent relative error, therefore letting us conclude the imaging function was successful. Figure 1 and Figure 2 displays the successful reconstruction of the points (-0.5, 0.5) and (1, -1).
  • ItemOpen Access
    Relationship Between Over-Controlling Parenting and Flourishing: A Mediation Model
    (2025-05) Pierce, Hannah F.
    Emerging adulthood (18-25 years) is a unique developmental period where many individuals are figuring out who they are and (potentially) exploring different opportunities to build their identities (Arnett, 2000). Many within this age group are struggling with depression and anxiety (Browning et al., 2021; Conrad et al., 2021), and this study wants to explore why. Previous research has shown over-controlling parenting was associated with baseline personality disorder symptoms (Johnson, et al., 2011) and may impede the child’s ability to develop independence and decision-making skills (Perry et al., 2018) as well as to flourish (Toman et al., 2024). In addition, research has shown perceived parental psychological control and insecure attachment styles are negatively related to independent decision-making (Xiang & Liu, 2018). I hypothesized perceived parental psychological control would be negatively related to flourishing due to an increase in insecure attachment styles (i.e., anxious-preoccupied, fearful-avoidant, dismissive-ambivalent) and mental health factors (i.e., anxiety, depression, personality disorder symptomatology). To test this, participants took a survey that measured each of our variables through seven well-supported questionnaires. 164 participants were included with 56.7% not enrolled in college and 26.3% enrolled in their first year at a large Midwestern university. Our results indicated perceived parental psychological control is negatively related flourishing due to increased levels of depression, anxiety, and an anxious-preoccupied attachment style.
  • ItemOpen Access
    A Comparative Analysis of the US vs EU Private Equity Markets
    (2025-12) Wallace, Colton
    This project offers a comparative analysis of the private equity markets in the United States and the European Union, concentrating on the environments for fundraising, investing, and divesting, as well as broader economic factors. Notably, the EU private equity market experienced a 15% increase in capital raised during the first half of 2024, fueled by decreasing interest rates and a stabilizing macroeconomic landscape (Invest Europe, 2024). In contrast, the US market contends with higher tariff regulations and slower divestment activity, though it maintains resilience in sectors such as healthcare and consumer goods (PitchBook, 2024). Investment activity in Europe is gaining momentum, especially within the AI and defense sectors, with a favorable outlook for mergers and acquisitions anticipated in 2025 (PitchBook, 2024). While the US market remains strong, it is marked by conservative leverage ratios and a trend toward growth equity deals instead of leveraged buyouts (PitchBook, 2024). European divestment activity, although initially sluggish, is beginning to accelerate, potentially unlocking further fundraising and investment opportunities (Invest Europe, 2024). The US market is still recovering from the prolonged effects of inflation and unfavorable valuation trends, with exit activity falling below pre-COVID levels in 2023 (PitchBook, 2024). The quantitative analysis reveals differences in performance metrics such as IRR, TVPI, and DPI, with the EU market demonstrating a more stable recovery (Burgess, 2024). Strategic recommendations highlight the importance of targeting high-growth sectors, leveraging regional strengths, and diversifying investment strategies. This project emphasizes the dynamic nature of private equity markets and provides valuable insights for investors navigating the complexities of the investment landscapes in the US and EU.
  • ItemOpen Access
    CJD, ACD, JB, and a one-in-million find: Reflections on a scholarly journey with the creator and inspiration of Sherlock Holmes
    (2025-05) Heseltine, Alexa
    As I end my undergraduate collegiate career and begin to plan my next chapter, I think about the role that Sherlock Holmes has played on the last four years of my life. When I began my time at Kansas State University in the Fall of 2021, I was enrolled as a Medical Microbiology major on the Pre-Med track. Unbeknownst to me, I was about to be introduced into the world of public health, where the likes of Samuel Crumbine, Joseph Bell, and John Shaw Billings were waiting for me to unearth their stories. Growing up, I had somewhat of an interest in medicine and most definitely an interest in science, so when it came to deciding a major, Medical Microbiology felt right, but I was not exactly sure why. As a freshman in college, I hit the ground running enrolling myself into the “Hacking the MCAT” CAT Community; Public & Veterinary Health in the Age of Sherlock Holmes; and Phage Hunters with the intent to foster a degree that would ultimately lead to medical school. These three courses independently and collectively paved the way for what would become four years of intellectual curiosity combined with a consistent confusion surrounding what career pathway I should be on.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Bridging Healthcare Disparities: Lessons from Volunteering in Guatemala
    (2024-11-19) Banhart, Maggie E.
    Global healthcare disparities are clear, particularly in under-developed countries like Guatemala, where access to basic medical services remains a significant challenge for many. My summer spent in Guatemala provided a unique opportunity to engage directly with these disparities, offering healthcare support to poverty-stricken rural communities, as well as volunteering at a special needs facility. Immersed in a culture vastly different from my own, I was confronted with the realities of living and working in a healthcare system with limited resources, contrasting firmly with the system I have known in the United States. This experience not only highlighted the significant gaps in healthcare access and quality between the two countries, but also emphasized the importance of understanding a culture to providing effective care. As I navigated the difficulty of cross-cultural communication and adjusted to the challenges of foreign healthcare conditions, I gained invaluable insights into the social factors of health and the toughness of communities facing adversity. This paper explores my journey through the lens of these experiences, analyzing the cultural and healthcare differences I encountered, and reflecting on the huge impact this immersion has had on my understanding of global health and my development as a future healthcare professional.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Formulation and Scale-Up of Plant-Based Lasagna
    (2025-05) Bhatt, Annika
    Lasagna is a classic dish, widely loved and consumed by many students at dining centers. However, there isn’t currently a lasagna option supporting diverse dietary needs and evolving consumer preferences in institutional dining centers. The objective of this study was to develop and scale-up a vegetarian lasagna for K-State’s dining centers, utilizing texturized soy protein (TSP) as the plant-based protein emphasizing flavor optimization. A lasagna recipe was obtained from the dining center and initially prepared by using a marinara sauce with seasoned TSP, noodles, and a blend of mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta. After conducting multiple trials to refine flavor and texture, the final lasagna prototype features diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasonings, a blend of cheeses, and the TSP. Methods included sautéing onions and garlic with tomatoes and seasoning, followed by layering sauce, noodles, and cheese to build the lasagna. The TSP was prepared by soaking it in warm water and vegetable base for 15-20 minutes. Then it was sauteed in a skillet with Italian seasonings to brown. Baking tests revealed that setting the Combi oven at 350°F for 35 minutes without foil was optimal for even heating after freezing, after proper thawing. The internal temperature after 30 minutes reached 165°F. The average water activity measurement was 0.975±0.004 on various lasagna components, indicating a larger amount of water available for potential microbial spoilage. The lasagna was scaled-up and consumer tested in the Kramer dining center. Approximately 50 students tasted the product which resulted in an average overall acceptability score of 7.89±0.82 (from a scale of 1-9) and 72.9% stated that they would consume/purchase the product again. This study demonstrates that students in the dining centers would consume this product and offers an option to accommodate for dietary preferences.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Ecotoxicity Emissions of Corn Production
    (2025-05) Wolf, Allison
    The population continuously rises throughout the world. As the that number continues to rise, so will the need for crops. The growth of the agricultural market will require an increase in herbicide, fertilizer, and irrigation, especially in the Midwest where higher yields are achieved with higher agrochemical application and irrigation. For an environmentally friendly increase in crops, it is important for farmers to identify and explore agricultural techniques that result in maximum yields with minimum impact. The Testing Ag Performance Solutions (TAPS) program allows for farmers to experiment with irrigation and farming practices while participating in a farm management competition. This Honors Project analyzes the ecological toxicity impacts for corn production over 34 differently managed TAPS fields and assesses the inputs of herbicides and fertilizers. The impacts were assessed using USEtox characterization factors from TRACI 2.0 and the impact category analyzed was ecotoxicity, which is generally overlooked in corn production analyses. TAPS data was analyzed using a reference seed/seeding rate and variable seed/seeding rates determined by the farmer. It was found that the ecotoxicity of corn production for agricultural soil ranged from 15.51 to 31.22 CTUeco/kg corn for reference seed/seeding rate and 13.54 to 37.02 CTUeco/kg corn for variable seed/seeding rate. Ecotoxicity for freshwater was generally higher, ranging from 49.39 to 99.37 CTUeco/kg corn for reference seed/seeding rate and 43.09 to 117.87 CTUeco/kg corn for variable seed/seeding rate. Finally, the ecotoxicity for air ranged from 19.09 to 38.43 CTUeco/kg corn for reference seed/seeding rate and 16.66 to 45.57 CTUeco/kg corn for variable seed/seeding rate. Results showed that the largest contributor to ecotoxicity was fertilizer for agricultural soil with 68%, herbicide for freshwater with 80%, and fertilizer for air with 93%. Results for irrigation vs yield showed that for 6 to 6.75 inches of total irrigation, the produced yield was very similar to that of 6.75 to 10 inches. Total ecotoxicity and nitrogen input did not show consistent trends. This report shows that corn production can have significant ecotoxicity impacts, though usually overlooked within studies. Finding sustainable irrigation and farming practices can potentially reduce these impacts while keeping a desired yield.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Shaping the Future of the Global Food Systems Leadership Program: An Approach to Interdisciplinary Education
    (2025-05) Easter, Adelaide
    The Global Food Systems Leadership (GFSL) program at Kansas State University is a joint secondary major housed between the Staley School of Leadership and the College of Agriculture. The program helps equip students to address complex issues within the global food system. This honors project explores what would be needed to reform and develop the program to be offered as both an undergraduate major and a certificate. Through multiple methods, I interviewed those who founded the program, drew comparisons from peer and aspirational institutions, aligned the program with three of K-State's strategic plans, and analyzed feedback from student surveys. These methods allowed me to identify potential curriculum plans for both degree offerings, applied learning opportunities, target students for the program, and strategies for recruitment. Key findings from the survey demonstrate students' desire for program expansion through developing a standalone major and modifying the secondary major into a certificate option. This proposal then outlined the pathway for program approval at each step. Lastly, this project argues the importance and value of more interdisciplinary approaches to education and how the Global Food Systems Leadership program better prepares students to understand and lead in addressing the global food systems' most complex challenges, like food security, poverty, and climate change.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Finding a voice: Personal Statement Writing in the Age of Generative AI
    (2025-05) Wilson, Sidney
    This paper examines the impact of generative AI on the personal statement writing process for graduate school applications. Through a review of existing literature and interviews with both academic professionals and students, this paper explores AI’s role in drafting, editing, and reviewing personal statements. Drawing from the research articles, I aimed to investigate what is currently discussed in the field, including AI’s influence on the writing process, student perspectives on AI use, and the ability of admissions committees to detect AI generated writing. My interviews with academic professionals provided insights into the editing and reviewing stages of the application process, while interviews with students highlighted how AI shaped their writing process. This paper discusses the many advantages and disadvantages of AI’s use, as well as ethical concerns surrounding its current and future role in the admissions process. I also reflect on my own experience writing a personal statement for my optometry school application, tying together my initial thoughts on generative AI then discussing and applying what I’ve learned through this research. Ultimately, my findings suggest that if AI continues to expand rapidly into the graduate school application landscape, especially in the personal statement section, then clearer steps must be taken to ensure ethical use, proper education, and equitable access.
  • ItemOpen Access
    The Effect of Gunnison’S Prairie Dog Colonies on Arthropod Diversity in the New Mexican Shortgrass Prairie
    (2025-05) Blakley, Thaddaeus
    The Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge is opportunistically located at the intersection of four distinct biomes: Chihuahuan semi-arid desert scrub, pinon-juniper woodland, Colorado Plateau shrub-steppe, and shortgrass prairie. The last of these ecosystems, located on the eastern edge of the Great Plains, supports a small but mighty mammal that ultimately formed the focal point of my research: the Gunnison’s prairie dog (Cynomys gunnisoni). Prairie dogs are a highly studied component of grasslands across the US and are widely recognized as keystone species and ecosystem engineers. The Sevilleta refuge hosts several human-facilitated prairie dog towns, the result of a relocation/reintroduction effort that was originally established in 2010. As there are relatively few studies documenting the influence of reintroduced prairie dogs on ecosystem diversity, I developed my thesis to evaluate how this conservation program impacts other components of biodiversity. Given that arthropods are reliable indicators of biodiversity, I collected, quantified, and analyzed the diversity of arthropod families within and outside of prairie dog towns. Arthropods are widespread, diverse, and acutely sensitive to environmental changes, potentially providing valuable insight into drivers of biodiversity change across landscapes. I set up 48 pitfall traps across two prairie dog towns and one control site. Each week, I collected and identified all specimens that had fallen into the traps. After four weeks of fieldwork, I began data analysis. My results demonstrated that the presence of prairie dogs did not significantly affect biodiversity, evenness, richness, or abundance; however, it did impact the community composition of arthropod families. These results suggest that prairie dogs influence microhabitats. These areas, while not more or less diverse than the surrounding prairie, nonetheless support a different variety of organisms. Additional research into these dynamics both at the Sevilleta and within other biological systems may be crucial for endangered species reintroduction programs, through a greater understanding of the role of these important species within their native communities.
  • ItemOpen Access
    The Evolution of Animal Research in Ancient Mediterranean Society
    (2024-05) Fritz, Sylvia
    For my honors project, I sought to combine my bachelor’s degree, biology, with my minor, in classics. I plan to go into research in the future, and I thought it would be interesting to see how research came to be what it is today. A lot of the fundamental ideas of research originated in ancient Mediterranean society, though it looked much different than the typical thesis paper seen in modern-day research. In this project, I examined the earliest developments of the studies of animals in ancient Mediterranean society and how it developed and evolved. I read several different works by scholars in the ancient Mediterranean region spanning from 300 B.C.E to 200 C.E. The three researchers I decided to focus on included Aristotle, Pliny the Elder, and Galen. Aristotle in some of his lecture notes about “The History of Animals” discussed systems of organization and proposed theories of the origins of animals and other aspects of nature. Pliny the Elder wrote a collection of thoughts about animals, arranged into what is considered to be the first encyclopedia called Natural History. I also read several excerpts and summaries of Galen’s anatomical research on barbery apes and pigs. He performed vivisections on these animals to figure out many fundamental ideas of anatomy in both humans and animals from this animal research. All of these were able to provide a narrative of the evolution of written research in animals. This project was incredibly interesting and provided a lot of context for the world I am about to be a part of. I believe one of the most important aspects of life is knowing history, and I feel more prepared for my future career in research having gained a better understanding of where different aspects of research originated.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Oxygen Consumption Differences in Intermittent-Fasted Animals
    (2024-05) Veith, Sabrina
    Intermittent fasting (IF) is a promising strategy to protect against cognitive impairment, such as in the case of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Our recent studies have found that young male rats introduced to 10 weeks of alternate-day fasting had significantly reduced body weights, compared to the ad-libitum (AL) control group. However, no significant differences were observed in female body weights even though both males and females had reduced food intake. This sexual dimorphism might be due to changes in resting whole-body metabolism. The study aimed to explore whether IF impacts overall oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production and whether these effects vary between sexes. Methods- Forty 10-week-old female and male Fisher-344 rats were randomly assigned to either a four-week IF group or AL group. Two weeks into the intervention resting oxygen consumption was measured by placing the animal in an air-tight chamber with O2 and CO2 analyzers in order to calculate oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, and respiratory exchange ratio (RER). Results- After two weeks of IF, females had reduced O2 consumption and CO2 production compared to the AL group (30.6 vs. 41.4 mL/min/kg, p<.01 and 25.1 vs. 36.1 mL/min/kg, p<.001, respectively), however, no significant changes were seen in the males. Conclusion- The results have confirmed that IF elicits significant sexual dimorphism in both O2 consumption and CO2 production where females exhibited declines in both while males did not change. This shift to a slower metabolism is likely the cause for maintained body mass during IF.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Assessing Curriculum Design and Approaches for the Educational Studies Degree Path
    (2024-04) Lynn, Payton
    This paper presents a comprehensive proposal aimed at revising Kansas State University’s Educational Studies program in order to create a dynamic, interdisciplinary course of study for a diverse range of student interests and career aspirations. Drawing on insights from current students, peer institutions, and professional guidance, this proposal outlines the development of specialized pathways to provide a structured series of courses that allow students to align their studies with their individual career goals. The proposal prioritizes integrating additional minors and certificates to supplement students’ learning through interdisciplinary courses of study. Leveraging the research results, this proposal aims to help students feel academically and professionally prepared for their career in education.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Recommendation Report on Campus Transit
    (2023-01) Brown, Ethan; Carey, Madeleine; Lynn, Payton; Saia, Nick; Wells, Mia; Linenberger, Raegan; Roberts, Gage
    The Kansas State University Student Governing Association (SGA), in coordination with the Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency (ATA), established the ATA Student Advisory Board. The Board identified the following goals: 1. Increase ATA’s engagement with and representation of students 2. Stabilize ATA’s pool of KSU funding sources 3. Preserve free-to-ride bus service for students
  • ItemOpen Access
    The Role of Artistic Expression in Therapeutic Design
    (2024-05) Davies, Alexis M.
    Over my years at Kansas State University pursuing my master’s in interior architecture, I have realized that my design philosophy revolves around human connection and expression. I aspire to design spaces that are artistic and inclusive while placing value on well-being. To implement and represent this concept, my thesis looks to struggles of occupational stress and self-expression, both of which are key professional problems present and relevant to today. Throughout this research, design development, and final proposal, I seek to design a therapeutic space that hinges on creative expression through the practice of art therapy. In the design of this interior build-out, I hope to showcase my interior architecture, furniture, and graphic design knowledge and versatility.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Technology and AI in Dentistry
    (2024-05) Zink, Samantha
    When the word “technology” is spoken, most individuals imagine their cell phones or laptops that they take everywhere. Or maybe they imagine gamers playing Call of Duty for hours on end. Technology is an important aspect of our society, and we place value upon it. The technological advancements in the medical world, particularly in dentistry, have impacted present and future generations. Although dentistry often gets overlooked in the medical world, oral health is incredibly vital for the health of an individual by preventing infections, diseases, and contributing to a better quality of life. Dentistry is ever-changing with new developments and technologies trying to continuously improve the oral health of patients. Understanding how dental technology evolved to where it is today, how the prevalence of artificial intelligence can be beneficial, and how this knowledge can be applied in an office setting is key to improving the lifestyles of dental patients in today’s society and the future.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Snap Benfit Restrictions on Drug Offenders
    (2024-05) Nusz, Natalie
    In this paper, I will address the SNAP restrictions for drug offenders in various states. Although the restrictions are federally upheld, many states have opted to adopt their own laws, or abolish the restrictions altogether. The purpose of this paper is to analyze trends of those effected by SNAP benefit restrictions on drug offenders and evaluate future policy solutions. We will begin by discussing the history of the SNAP drug offender ban, beginning in 1996. Next, we will analyze the effects this ban has had on drug offenders, both in the past and present. Finally, we will look at a close case study of Texas and Florida. Preceding the established background, the paper will include my own solutions to the SNAP ban on drug offenders. These findings are backed by significant research and can be used to provide guidance to future legislators. This paper was presented to the Food Security Scholar Program at Kansas State University in order to facilitate discussion and future change.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Key Characteristics of VR Videos and Their Impacts on Audience Engagement
    (2025-05) Willson, Madeline
    This content analysis of 300 YouTube VR videos took a quantitative approach to examine the impacts of genre, interactivity, storytelling richness, technical enhancement, technical disruption, and immersive audio on audience engagement. Previously, there have been few quantitative studies that have focused on more than one or two of these categories in relation to 360-degree videos. This study is one of the first to consider the impact of multiple categories on audience engagement solely for YouTube VR videos. Viewers are more engaged with VR videos that did not have technical disruption, as well as VR videos that had a higher level of storytelling richness. The impacts of genre, interactivity, technical enhancement, and immersive audio had no significant impact on audience engagement. This is consistent with previous studies as YouTube is significantly limited in regards to VR related features. Findings from the study contributed to the discussion on the technical behavioral aspect of human-to-content interactions, a part of the newly proposed audience engagement theory currently nested under the broader Uses and Gratifications framework. Future studies should consider using videos across the YouTube platform, as our study focused only on videos found on the YouTube VR channel.
  • ItemOpen Access
    What Style of Learning is Most Beneficial to Students?
    (2025-05) Jenner, Lexi
    In the summer of 2023, I was a student coordinator with the College of Health and Human Sciences’ Health Professions Exploration Program at Kansas State University. This program hosted sessions over many health careers to introduce students to professions they may not know about or may be considering before college. I saw through each session, students retained more and were more driven to learn more about health professions that were presented in active and engaging ways. I was intrigued to research more about what learning style is most beneficial to students in general and in health programs. I took the Health Professions Exploration Program as a start to research active learning and how this style impacts students. I found that an active learning style is most beneficial for engaging students, retaining information, and increasing performance of students in future careers. During the summer camp, data was collected on what the students thought about each session. The data that was collected shows that the students enjoyed and wanted to learn more from the sessions that were presented in an active learning style. The students were more interested in areas of health that were presented in engaging formats. The following research paper uses the data from this health camp to show that students learn and benefit from active, engaged learning. I have also researched from other sources to support my claims and observations as well as included research pertaining to health programs.

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