Public Health students tackle real-world issues at WVU Undergraduate Research Symposium

Three undergraduate students from West Virginia University School of Public Health earned recognition for their scholarly research at the WVU Undergraduate Research Symposium, showcasing projects that address critical issues ranging from first aid education and illicit substance use to maternal health risks.

School of Public Health and Honors College students Julia Auch and Maya Carter tied for runner-up in the Health Sciences category for their Honors EXCEL poster presentations. Both were mentored by Associate Professor Steve Davis.

Auch’s research poster, “First Aid 101: A First Aid Education for the West Virginia University Community,” was centered on a project aimed to educate Mountaineers about first aid and empower them to utilize those skills in the community.

Carter’s research titled “A Comprehensive Look at the Social Influences Surrounding Illicit Substance Use Among Undergraduate Students” aimed to enhance on-campus harm reduction programs and promote safer practices throughout West Virginia communities by examining WVU undergraduates' attitudes, social norms, risk perceptions and substance use behaviors.

Also participating in the symposium was Sabrina Thorn, presenting her research poster titled “Descriptive Analysis of Risk Factors Associated with Developing Intrauterine Growth Restriction in Multiparous Mothers.” Thorn’s mentors included School of Public Health Assistant Professor Caroline P. Groth and graduate student Devon Collins, along with Russell Hunter, Teresa Gluth and Elizabeth Bowdridge.

Read more about the event from the WVU Office of Undergraduate Research.

Feature photo: Julia Auch pictured with her research materials.
Inset photo: Sabrina Thorn pictured with her research poster.