Undergraduate Research Symposium showcases student discovery and innovation
K-State’s expanded Undergraduate Research Symposium invites undergraduate researchers to present their work as part of One K-State Research Week, April 17–24. Registration for the April 23 event opens Nov. 17.
When the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan launched, it introduced a bold vision for Kansas State University as a next-generation land-grant institution — one that leads in teaching excellence, research and service by 2030.
In alignment with this vision, the Office of Scholar Development and Undergraduate Research, or SDUR, expanded the Developing Scholars Program Symposium in spring 2024 to include undergraduate researchers from across the university, as well as select students from Manhattan High School.
The Undergraduate Research Symposium offers students the opportunity to present posters highlighting their mentored research projects to the broader campus and local community. Since expanding the event, student participation has grown significantly. In just two years, the number of presentations increased from 96 in spring 2024 to 146 in spring 2025, prompting the addition of a second session to accommodate the growing interest. Participation from Manhattan High School students also rose from four presenters to nine.
Mary Kohn, director of the Chapman Center for Rural Studies, reflected on the event's importance in helping students develop professional skills while sharing their work with a broader audience.
"At the Chapman Center, we believe that research is better when shared, and the Undergraduate Research Symposium provides a friendly, supportive environment for students who may be presenting research for the first time," Kohn said. "Working toward a deadline with clear expectations and an informed audience is critical to student professionalization."
Sophomore physics major Viv Nguyen shared a similar perspective about her experience presenting at the symposium.
"It made me realize how much I love talking about my research and being part of a community that's genuinely excited about learning and discovery," Nguyen said. "It gave me confidence in the direction I'm going and reminded me that I do belong here and have something valuable to contribute to K-State."
This year marks a new chapter for the Spring Undergraduate Research Symposium as part of One K-State Research Week, taking place April 17–24. The weeklong celebration will highlight discovery, creativity and the innovations that shape the world around us. The Undergraduate Research Symposium will take place on April 23 in the K-State Student Union.
The Office of Scholar Development and Undergraduate Research invites all undergraduate students engaged in mentored research with an opportunity to share their findings and celebrate academic discovery. Registration opens November 17.
For questions about the symposium or other SDUR opportunities, email sdur@k-state.edu or visit the symposium website.
-Submitted by Kyle Padden