I presented my research at UNH’s Undergraduate Research Conference on April 26, 2024. Admittedly, this experience was absolutely terrifying, however, it was also extremely enlightening, in the sense that I got to be appreciated for the work I had done over the past year. I had the opportunity to share my research in front of my loved ones, friends, peers, and professors. To put so much effort into something, be able to share it, and get publicly recognized was truly worth the experience in every way.
Specifically, I orally presented my Honors thesis at the Haslerud Honors Psychology Conference. The presentation was twelve minutes with a few minutes left afterward for questions. There were around forty people in attendance. My Honors thesis looked at the role of different types of parenting and emotions on the influence of delinquent behaviors. For this project, which was funded by a Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF), I collected and analyzed the data with the help of my advisor and the doctorate students I was working with. I collected my own data through the SONA online research pool at UNH and was able to use this data to answer my research questions. Ultimately, I found that the relationship between certain parenting styles and certain emotions does influence a young adult's decision to commit rule-violating behaviors. This project made me extremely excited to learn more about the role that the people who raised us have in our future behaviors.
I was scared to present my research mostly because of my fear of public speaking. However, I was able to overcome this challenge with the help of my professors, family, and peers. I got the chance to practice my presentation in front of my fellow classmates many, many times. I practiced in the room where the conference was held, in front of a small class of students, at an event or an organization, and in my room in front of my cat. This practice was essential for my confidence and ability to present my research and findings effectively. I received some helpful tips from my advisor and the doctorate student I worked with, both of whom presented many times before and helped me to organize my presentation and explain it in a way that would make sense to people who are not in my field of study.
Like most research, the opportunity to share it is wonderful. One of the most common ways this is done is through writing a research or reflection paper. This is still required for my thesis, but being able to talk about it in front of others and show what I found and learned was a unique and thrilling experience. Whether it be a poster, an oral presentation, or a discussion, I believe every student should have a chance to work in-depth on a project and share their findings and experiences publicly.
