Lexi Marek participated in Iowa State University's Science with Practice program.

2016 Mar 4

Lexi Marek, Public Service and Administration in Agriculture at #IowaState, was a participant of Science with Practice. 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.

Marek was advised by Ms. Carly Cummings, program coordinator, on a project titled Grow by Future FarmHer; An Event for Young Women in Agriculture. This project combined Marek's internship with FarmHer to plan an event to inform and inspire young women. The event was held in November and was a success! Around 250 people came together to network and learn from each other.

In total, more than 25 students and 21 faculty participated in the program during Fall 2015. As part of the program, students establish individualized learning agreements, 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 has linked students with faculty research for 10 years. Students may participate in the program multiple semesters. For more information visit www.ageds.iastate.edu/SWP.

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