The Provost’s Student Research Showcase at the Redwood Room of the University Union gave students of varying majors a chance to showcase their research projects.

The Tuesday event, which featured undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral student research in the form of poster presentations was organized by Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Frederika Harmsen, as well as Assistant Vice President to Research Affairs Davis Earwicker.

There were 95 research posters presented in total, with over 150 students contributing as authors or co-authors to published research.

The student researchers represented 26 departments across six colleges.

This event offers students a chance to present the work that they have spent many hours researching, analyzing and writing.

One presenter was Amber Dewey, a 24-year-old environmental studies major and Sacramento State senior. Her research project covered the topic of sustainable agriculture through aquaponic structures.

“Being part of this showcase makes me feel like I’m being recognized,” Dewey said. “I get to explain my topic and show people that there is a scientific aspect to this but people can bring these into their homes as well.”

Dewey studied mating tendencies in bluegill fish within aquaponic structures in hopes of finding a way to more successfully breed them in captivity. Aquaponic structures allow for a micro-ecosystem to create reusable water, the only water lost being through evaporation.

Another student whose work was being showcased was Andrew Carhart, a graduate student focusing on public policy and administration. His research project studies the causation between low API scores and income discrepancies in communities.

“We did a lot of work and spent a lot of time gathering the information and analyzing it,” said Carhart. “It’s really hard to publicize this kind of work; this allows us to bring it down to a level where everyone can understand the importance of the research.”

English major Rachel Huizer had her work showcased as well. Huizer studied gothic authors Mary Shelley and Ann Radcliffe and how the characters in their novels were a representation of the psychological damages on women caused by living in a patriarchal society.

“Being part of the research and contributing to the academia of my field is very meaningful,” Huizer said. “It’s rewarding to share with other people on campus what I’ve spent so much time on.”

Ron Coleman, a Biology professor at Sac State, stressed the importance that the showcase was not only for the sciences but for all students who conduct research projects.

This event acted as a forward for the campus-wide Student Research Symposium on March 6, 2015 where the best projects will be awarded the Provost’s Award for Research Excellence.

Other upcoming events are the 29th annual California State University Student Research Competition on May 1-2 as well as the Psychology Department 2014 Annual Research Conference held on Nov. 4.