SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. — Cuesta College will host its 2nd Annual Undergraduate Research Week April 20–24, with a live student research poster session on Wednesday, April 22, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Courtyard at the San Luis Obispo Campus. The event is free and open to the public.
Undergraduate Research Week is designed to highlight the innovative work of Cuesta College students across a wide range of STEM disciplines and to offer the community an opportunity to engage with student-led research and discover the impact of hands-on learning at a community college.
Cuesta College STEM faculty co-sponsor the event through the National Science Foundation’s Improving Undergraduate STEM Education (IUSE) grant and the Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) Program. The weeklong event showcases the college’s growing commitment to undergraduate research and innovation.
“This undergraduate research week and poster session is an exciting opportunity to celebrate the depth and quality of student research happening at Cuesta College,” said Dr. Laurie McConnico, Biology Instructor and Undergraduate Research Mentor at Cuesta College. “It reflects the meaningful collaboration between students and faculty mentors and highlights the real-world impact of hands-on learning in STEM.”
The poster session will feature student research projects spanning disciplines such as biology, chemistry, mathematics, engineering, astronomy, anthropology, oceanography, and more. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak directly with student researchers about their work and learn how these projects address real-world challenges.
“MESA and IUSE faculty are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate and expand undergraduate research experiences for our students,” said MESA Director Sara Sanchez. “These partnerships allow us to support students in developing critical thinking skills while engaging in meaningful, applied research.”
Over the past several years, Cuesta College has built a robust undergraduate research program, engaging hundreds of students in faculty-led projects and creating pathways for academic and career success in STEM fields. Grants from the MESA and IUSE programs, as well as the Cuesta College Foundation, help support Cuesta College’s undergraduate research efforts. These grants help institutionalize research opportunities and expand student access.
To attend the April 22 poster session, please register online by visiting this event registration link.
About Cuesta College
Cuesta College empowers students to imagine and achieve brighter futures through high-quality
education, personalized support, and a welcoming community. With a main campus in
San Luis Obispo, a North County Campus in Paso Robles, a South County Center in Arroyo
Grande, and a variety of online offerings, we offer opportunities that inspire growth,
spark innovation, and open doors, helping every student succeed on their unique path.
Learn more at cuesta.edu.