Nine undergraduate students represented Oakland University’s political science department at the 2024 Pi Sigma Alpha (PSA) National Student Research Conference in Washington, D.C. from Feb. 16 to 18. Throughout the weekend, OU PSA scholars Grace Agoubi, Payton Bucki, Murryum Farooqi, Matthew Nault, Ethan Pemberton, Taylor Richardson, Alex Verzillo, Mallory Waligora and John Yarber presented research to fellow students and scholars from across the country.
Months in advance of the conference, the students prepared their research papers. Research topics ranged from American politics to international relations.
Agoubi conducted her research on the Food Stamp Act and the societal factors that necessitated the social support program. Pemberton conducted a historical review of cigarette advertisements.
Matthew Nault, a senior political science student, completed research on the topic of U.S. maternity leave procedures.
“My research started as a two-page classroom project about state maternity leave policies. It just expanded from there…I decided to do more intensive research on the topic for my honors thesis,” Nault said.
Professor Nicole Mathew was the faculty advisor for the trip. Mathew worked closely with Nault as he prepared for the conference.
“I worked directly with Matthew [Nault] on his project. His research had some incredible results, and I think I will suggest that he submit his paper to a research journal,” Mathew said.
As the conference drew closer, the students completed a practice presentation for faculty members of the political science department.
Yarber displayed his research regarding racial disparities in COVID mortality rates within the state of Michigan. Yarber found that, in Michigan, white individuals were more likely to die from COVID.
These findings provided an interesting conversation for faculty, some of whom attempted to speculate why the racial disparity in COVID mortality rates existed.
The practice presentation provided students valuable advice on potential modifications to their presentation, as well as future avenues of research to consider exploring. Further, the practice allowed the conference participants a chance to build their conference ahead of the trip.
On Feb. 16, the conference participants departed for Washington, D.C. Once there, the group spent the day sightseeing and learning more about the history of the United States.
The students were treated to an exclusive tour of the interior of the Washington Monument as well as a walking tour of the United States Capitol building.
Following an exciting day of exploring, the students got to work preparing for their research presentations.
Students were split into sessions depending on their research paper topic at the conference. During each session, students presented their research in succession. Following the presentation portion of the session, a graduate or doctoral student would provide the presenters with feedback and constructive criticism. Last, students were allowed to answer audience questions regarding their work.
“I am very proud of Matthew’s [Nault] presentation at the conference, he looked so relaxed and confident,” Mathew said. “There were a lot of really high caliber [research] papers presented at the conference. Our students did very well on their presentations. I was really impressed. I think we represented the university very well.”
Nault was initially nervous about participating in the conference. However, the conference ended up being an enjoyable experience for him.
“I was very nervous about the conference, but I decided to do it because it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Nault said. “Seeing all the research of my peer students and listening to an inspiring keynote speaker made the conference a great educational experience,” Nault said. “I also appreciate Professor Mathew’s support and all the friendships I formed with other OU students.”
Professor Mathew believes that the Pi Sigma Alpha conference is a unique experience that allows students to deepen their understanding of political science while simultaneously engaging in professional development.
“I think it [the Pi Sigma Alpha conference] gets students excited about research,” Mathew said. “For students who want to go to graduate school or law school, the research experience adds a unique point to their resume.”
To learn more about Pi Sigma Alpha and how to get involved, visit the organization’s GrizzOrgs page.
*Disclaimer: The writer of this article was a participant in the Pi Sigma Alpha trip.*
