From the perception of people with tattoos to assessing the value of a liberal arts education to the viability of nuclear energy, students at Penn State New Kensington explored a variety of issues during the fall and spring semesters. The results of their research will be unveiled publicly at the 10th annual Research and Creative Exposition from 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, April 17, in the campus Athletics Center.
Student researchers will display their current research as posters or oral presentations at the annual event. The exposition provides students, under the guidance of a faculty adviser, with the opportunity to conduct research, draw conclusions and present their information in a public setting. This year, 50 students researched 37 projects that will be exhibited in poster format or delivered orally.
Also, in conjunction with the Expo, Penn State New Kensington will host the fourth annual Career Day from 12:30 to 3 p.m. on April 17, in the Athletics Center. Career Day complements the Expo by creating new opportunities for the students and faculty to build stronger contacts with local industries through sharing of career information while also highlighting the campus' many research and creative activities.
Representatives from more than 25 employers will discuss career options, internships and job opportunities for current students and recent graduates. Organizations attending Career Day represent a variety of fields including business, engineering, science, information technology, psychology, marketing, administration of justice, communications, finance, accounting, social services and human services. The campus faculty is encouraged to attend as companies will focus on career paths within their organizations that relate to academic disciplines.
"The combination of the Career Day with the Research and Creative Expo creates a major annual event for the campus while giving students significant opportunities to present their best work to local professionals and employers," said Jim Shields, career services coordinator at the campus. "At the same time, it's another chance to showcase Penn State New Kensington as a vital resource for local communities and businesses."
Career Day is more than just a job and internship fair. The goals for the event are three-fold: career information-sharing with students; networking among students, faculty and local businesses; and recruitment for internships and jobs. A directory with more information about opportunities with each employer will be available before the event to help students prepare for their interactions with the representatives.
The event is open to current Penn State students and recent graduates and admission is free. For more information, contact Jim Shields, career services coordinator, at 724-334-6095 or jshields@psu.edu online.
For more on the expo and career day and a list of student projects, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/44490.htm#NEWS44490 online.

