Neuroscience major Steven Selvarian '13 collaborated with Professor of Biology Kathleen Siwicki on research into the courtship behavior of Drosophila melanogaster. The highlight of his experience, he says, was "the opportunity to learn from the great faculty members we have here" at Swarthmore.

Whether they are planning careers in research, medicine, or health-care policy, it is important for undergraduate science students like Selvarian to conduct research with faculty and travel to work in leading research labs. Siwicki believes summer research experiences are critical in forming students' decisions to pursue science careers. "You can't learn science without doing science," she says. "Conducting research over the summer is a great opportunity for students to work full-time in the lab." 

Selvarian is one of about 200 students who received support through Swarthmore for summer learning and research projects. From Chester to China, they were engaged in experiences that took them to the frontiers of knowledge outside the traditional classroom. more