Discover How California Lutheran University Students Shine Through Summer Research Fellowships – Exciting Highlights from Cal Lutheran News!

After the spring semester wrapped up in May, more than 50 students at California Lutheran University chose to stay on campus to dive into research with faculty mentors. Through the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship Program, students from various majors, like theatre, psychology, and biology, worked alongside professors on projects of their choice.

Many of these students plan to continue their research during the 2025-26 school year and share their findings at conferences nationwide. Some may even publish their work.

Dr. Andrea Sell, the program’s director, emphasizes the collaborative nature of the experience. “Students aren’t just assistants; they become true partners in research. This hands-on mentorship helps them recognize their potential to contribute meaningfully to their fields,” she explains.

Over the eight-week program, students participated in weekly workshops covering essential skills. They learned how to present their findings, network, make ethical decisions, conduct literature reviews, and analyze data. These skills will benefit them as they pursue graduate programs or enter the workforce.

Here are a few standout research projects from the program:

Khusanjon Bobokhojaev is working with Professor Sebastian Carron on a project honing data analysis techniques in particle physics. Their research aims to improve the search for supersymmetry at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider. “Our work pushes the boundaries of the Standard Model and explores deeper truths about the universe,” Khusanjon says.

Crisstal Negron focuses on the overlooked challenges faced by Latine students with incarcerated parents. Partnering with Professor Jose Alfredo Torres, she hopes their project will inform better institutional policies and address harmful stereotypes. “By understanding these students, we can help create inclusive educational environments,” she states.

Mia Calderon and Professor Jodie Kocur are studying the experiences of autistic college students. Their project aims to identify social challenges and advocate for better support systems within universities. Mia notes, “This research is crucial for fostering a more inclusive campus experience for autistic students.”

Participation in the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship Program has doubled since 2017, but the core focus on faculty-student collaboration remains. “This commitment to meaningful learning is supported by generous donors, ensuring students can fully engage without juggling jobs,” says Dr. Sell.

Mark your calendars! The students will present their insights at the Cal Lutheran Student Research Symposium on October 18. Everyone is welcome to attend this free event.

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