Kelly Rue participated in Iowa State University's Science with Practice program.

2017 Dec 18

Kelly Rue, majoring in animal science at Iowa State University, was a participant in Science with Practice this fall. Science with Practice is a learning and work experience program in research and related laboratories for undergraduate students. Students work closely with faculty and graduate students to gain experience in their field of study.

Students are able to conduct research and form mentoring relationships with faculty while earning money and academic credit. The program allows students to develop an understanding of the links between research and practical real-world situations and problems.

Rue was advised by Dr. Stephanie Hansen, associate professor in animal science, on a project titled "Effect of supplemental zinc on nutrient digestibility during an ACTH challenge." This project was designed to determine the effect of supplemental zinc on nutrient digestibility during an ACTH challenge. Sheep were housed in metabolism crates for three days of fecal and urine collection, and received either a zinc deficient or zinc adequate diet and either saline or ACTH injections.

In total, nearly 20 undergraduate students and mentors participated in the program during fall 2017. As part of the program, students establish individualized learning agreements with faculty mentors, create a final portfolio and complete biweekly journals of their semester progress. The semester concludes with a public poster presentation where students share their projects and experiences.

The Science with Practice program, administered through the Department of Agricultural Education and Studies, has linked students with faculty research since spring 2005. Students may participate in the program multiple semesters.

This program is funded by the ISU Agricultural Endowment Board, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the Van Wert Family Endowment.