On August 7th, Penn State Wilkes-Barre senior electrical engineering technology student Mike Wright of Dallas participated in the inaugural Penn State Multi-Campus Engineering Research Experience for Undergraduates held at University Park presenting his poster on Simulating Frictionless Bearings.
The Penn State College of Engineering in association with six participating Commonwealth Campuses established the Penn State Multi-Campus Engineering Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) with a two-fold objective: to promote undergraduate students participating in research early in their academic program in order to broaden their education and increase chances of them entering graduate studies, and to promote mutual awareness and collaboration between professors at University Park and Commonwealth Campuses.
"It was a really great experience to be able to work and meet with other campuses," explained Wright. "I was also able to present my poster, showing how eliminating regular ball bearings to make motors and generators maintenance free and more efficient, to multiple professors from University Park."
The concept was intended for an undergraduate student to be advised on a research project by two professors, one from a Commonwealth Campus and the other from University Park. Student requirements for the REU opportunities was a one-page proposal written jointly by the student and the two faculty advisors from the two campuses as well as attendance at the poster symposium. Wright's advisor from Penn State Wilkes-Barre was Instructor of Engineering, Tim Sichler and from University Park was Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering, Dr. Jeff Mayer.
"This was a great opportunity for Mike," explains Sichler. "He was truly able to appreciate the value of the vast resources Penn State provides to all its students regardless of campus location."
Penn State Wilkes-Barre provides a world-renowned university in a smaller, more intimate setting. Dedicated staff and teachers have helped students of all ages since the campus' inception in 1916 and continue to provide excellent education and support. Penn State Wilkes-Barre boasts eight Bachelor's degrees and four Associate's degrees and the ability to start one of over 160 degrees at Penn State Wilkes-Barre and continue at another campus.
