Upskilling for Summer Researchers

Summer Research Undergraduates at FAU Jupiter Gather for Professional Development Workshop

Florida Atlantic University and The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology (UF Scripps) hosted a professional development workshop and breakfast social for undergraduate students participating in summer research programs at the John D. MacArthur Campus.

The more than 25 students who attended the event came from FAU and over a dozen other universities to conduct summer research projects at FAU Jupiter, FAU’s Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute, UF Scripps and the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience. The annual gathering, now in its 10^th year, is an opportunity for students to enjoy some time away from their research activities while also practicing their professional networking skills.

Kelly Nielsen, assistant director, Florida Atlantic Career Center, led the workshop portion of the program, sharing insights on the purpose and best practices of networking and professional communications, and the importance of relationship-building for establishing a personal brand. The students then had the opportunity to practice networking with their peers and the faculty and staff who were in attendance.

“A mastery of public speaking and engaging in meaningful, professional conversation are essential for elevating a career in science,” said Catherine Trivigno, Ph.D., senior instructor of biology at FAU’s Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College, who co-organized the event with Rosie Albarran-Zeckler, Ph.D., manager of academic support services at UF Scripps.

The event capped off with a raffle drawing for participants. Refreshments were provided by UF Scripps.