Two Arkansas State University-Newport students will spend their summer learning hands-on skills in the natural science field.

Kali Guardiola, of Jonesboro, is a Natural Science Major at ASU-Newport and received acceptance into the Arkansas State University Bridge Research Program. The paid research internship allows students to be matched with faculty mentors to guide research endeavors.

According to A-State’s website, “Both peer and faculty mentors will guide students through hands-on lab research and/or field research, which will give students the opportunity to conduct experiments, collect data, analyze results/data, and interpret outcomes.”

Guardiola served as a lab assistant for ASUN and will participate in community outreach activities as well as professional development opportunities throughout the internship.

Stephen Campbell is also a Natural Sciences Major at ASU-Newport. From West Monroe, Louisiana, Campbell received acceptance into the Phenotypic Plasticity Research Experience for Community College Students (PRECS) in Illinois.

Only 10 community college students are selected for this 10-week summer program. PRECS is a collaboration between the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, located in Urbana, IL, and Parkland College, located in Champaign, IL.

The program includes a stipend and will allow Campbell to develop research skills followed by research immersion. Research projects range from environmental stress on neuroanatomy to the interactions of genes and the environment on fish behavior.

Both summer programs offer new experiences for Guardiola and Campbell. Furthermore, their research projects and experience will be crucial resume builders as they continue their natural sciences education.

ASU-Newport looks forward to these students returning in the fall and sharing their knowledge and experience with others.