Connecting students through research

Research

By Meghan Sullivan10-22-2024

Research is a fundamental part of society, driving innovation and advancing knowledge across all fields. At the University of Miami, research is a cornerstone of the academic experience, but for many students, navigating how to get involved can be challenging. That's where UConnectsteps in.

UConnect is a peer-based networking platform that connects students-both those with research experience and those seeking it-with scientific researchers. The service offers a range of opportunities to network, present, shadow, and attend conferences.

President Kayla MacElhinney, a junior majoring in neuroscience, is at the forefront of UConnect. Under her leadership, the club has become a hub for students seeking guidance and research opportunities.

"Many students feel overwhelmed by the idea of research," said MacElhinney. "We want to emphasize that research is not something to be afraid of. It's a process of learning and discovery, and everyone has to start somewhere."

Kayla MacElhinney, a junior majoring in neuroscience and president of UConnect

All students on the executive board are actively involved in their research. MacElhinney herself conducts research at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and the McKnight Brain Institute. The expertise of the members of the executive board enables them to help students network while also providing valuable insights.

UConnect prides itself on preparing students for the real world by hosting events such as resume-building workshops to help them effectively incorporate research experience into their resumes. The club's most recent and notable event was EnvisionU, the first undergraduate research symposium organized by students for students, held at the Donna E. Shalala Student Center on Oct. 4

The event was initially planned for early 2024 and was scheduled to run in the spring but was postponed to the fall. Despite the delay, MacElhinney quickly took charge, spending the summer curating contracts and overseeing its planning. Her hard work and extensive marketing efforts were key to securing participants and making the event a success.

A total of 41 students from both STEM and humanities disciplines showcased their research, and the event gained significant traction.

"The event was a great place for students to practice showcasing their research," said MacElhinney. "EnvisonU gave students the confidence and experience to showcase their work at larger conferences and symposiums because now they have the experience doing so.

"The supportive environment really stood out," MacElhinney added. "Students were not only proud of their own work but also encouraged and celebrated the research of their peers."

Students are recognized on stage during the inaugural EnvisionU undergraduate research symposium.

After the overwhelming success of the inaugural EnvisionU, UConnect plans to make it an annual event. The club hopes to attract more participants next year and continue improving the initiative as it grows.

Looking to the future, UConnect has many plans for expanding its reach across campus-a goal that previous club president Erica Lin, a biochemistry graduate who served 2023-2024, passed on to MacElhinney, who is further expanding the club's reach across campus and beyond the STEM and humanities fields.

"We have been in contact with Miami Herbert Business School and the School of Communication in hopes of inviting students from these schools to join the club and research with us as well," said MacElhinney.

As UConnect continues to grow, students should keep an eye out for upcoming events to experience the benefits of research firsthand and prepare for life beyond the classroom.