Whether it’s solving the world’s biggest problems or investigating the potential of novel discoveries, researchers at UCF are on the edge scientific breakthroughs that aim to make an impact. Through the Research in 60 Seconds series, student and faculty researchers condense their complex studies into bite-sized summaries so you can know how and why Knights plan to improve our world.

Name: Kayla Elizabeth Campana ’15 ’22MA
Major: History alumna who will be pursuing a doctoral degree in texts and technology this fall

Why are you interested in this research?
My interest in this research really stems from the importance of it and wanting to make sure those who might otherwise be forgotten, are not, and that their service and sacrifices are remembered. Though World War I happened over a hundred years ago and the individuals who lived and served in it are no longer with us, their impact is still felt today. We cannot forget that impact or the importance of it.

Are you a faculty member or student conducting research at UCF? We want to hear from you! Tell us about your research at bit.ly/ucf-research-60-form.

How did you get started in research at UCF?
I credit my start in research at UCF to my professors in my undergraduate career, especially my history professors. As a history student, my professors fostered an environment for research, not only teaching how to conduct research, but allotting me opportunities to conduct research by getting me into the archives and the sources. This continued throughout my time in my master’s program, where the faculty provided their knowledge and encouragement, and opportunities for field work.

Who is your mentor? Who inspires you and how?
Dr. Amelia Lyons had been my mentor since my undergraduate career and throughout my master’s program. She has not only been my mentor, but an inspiration, an advocate, and overall, one of my biggest supporters. Her dedication to her students is above and beyond and she is a well-accomplished researcher and educator. As I continue to further my education and one day teach, I aspire to have that level of passion, commitment and compassion.

How does UCF empower you to do your research?
UCF has empowered me to conduct my research in numerous ways, including support from the outstanding faculty and staff, through funding opportunities to travel to conduct my research and present at conferences, the ability to share my research at events, such as the Student Scholar Symposium, the opportunities have been endless at UCF.

Why is this research important?
This research is important because by tracing psychological trauma and the treatment of trauma, we begin and continue to understand the changes that have occurred over time and the impact the past has had on the present and how it can shape the future. My research not only increases our understanding of the past, but further breaks down some of the stigma surrounding trauma today.

 

How to Get Involved with Research at UCF

  • F-LEARN @ UCF: A living-learning community for STEM students entering UCF from high school that provides hands-on early research opportunity for academic success.
  • Getting Started Workshops: The Office of Research hosts workshops that inform students about how to get started in research and find a faculty member to work with and the first steps on getting started in research.
  • Honors Undergraduate Thesis: Over the course of two to four semesters, students work closely with a faculty committee to research, write, defend, and publish an original thesis that serves as an honors capstone product of their undergraduate career.
  • Introduction to Research and Creative Scholarship Opportunities (INTRO) Mentoring Program: A semester-long immersive, classroom experience offered in fall and spring semesters that provides students ways to get connected to research opportunities. This program is available in person or online.
  • Office of Undergraduate Research: OUR is dedicated to cultivating and supporting world-class research at UCF. Students can connect with the office for any questions they may have about research or to find opportunities.
  • Peer Mentoring: This program connects students with experienced undergraduate researchers who will provide guidance on how to get started and get support through research experiences.
  • Research Positions Database: This online resource allows students to discover research opportunities with UCF researchers across various disciplines. Please note faculty contact information is password protected, but students can gain access by attending a peer mentoring session, completing the Research Roadmaps webcourse, and through other engagement opportunities.
  • Research Roadmaps Webcourse: The is an online, non-credit, self-paced course that introduces students to research opportunities at UCF. It provides the same information as peer mentoring sessions or a workshop, but at your own pace. Completion of this course also provides you access to the Research Positions Database.
  • SONA: This is a research participation system that allows students who are looking to become participants in studies, usually in exchange for course credit, to find opportunities. The College of Health Professions and Sciences, College of Business and Department of Psychology are among some of the units at UCF that list opportunities here.
  • Summer Research Academy: A three-day event in July that’s designed to support UCF undergraduate students across all majors who are interested in participating in research and creative scholarship. This is an ideal opportunity for students who want to begin research in the fall.
  • T-LEARN @ UCF: A living-learning community for first-year, transfer students at UCF who have already earned an Associate in Arts degree. T-LEARN provides a select group of students interested in STEM hands-on learning experiences by helping them engage in research.

Are you a faculty member or student conducting research at UCF? We want to hear from you! Tell us about your research at bit.ly/ucf-research-60-form.