April 10, 2017

Civil engineering undergrads make waves in SURF program

Student Nadia Aljabi discovers her role as researcher in the SURF program.
Student Nadia Aljabi discovers her role as researcher in the SURF program.
The SURF experience helps student Holly Haflich decide what she wants to do after graduation.
The SURF experience helps student Holly Haflich decide what she wants to do after graduation.
Nathaniel Kallmyer (center) stands with his mentors, Professor Ernest “Chip” Blatchley III (left), and Professor Zhi “George” Zhou.
Nathaniel Kallmyer (center) stands with his mentors, Professor Ernest “Chip” Blatchley III (left), and Professor Zhi “George” Zhou.
Alan Kanybek discusses the serviceability of reinforced concrete structures at the symposium.
Alan Kanybek discusses the serviceability of reinforced concrete structures at the symposium.
Brian Rogers presents his research data at the 2016 SURF Research Symposium.
Brian Rogers presents his research data at the 2016 SURF Research Symposium.
Purdue University’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program offers students a rich opportunity to take part in academic research — something students typically may not experience until graduate school. In addition to researching with faculty and grad students, SURF participants are paid for their efforts, get to attend professional development and research seminars, present their research discoveries at the SURF symposium, and enjoy social activities with other members.

Purdue University’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program offers students a rich opportunity to take part in academic research — something students typically may not experience until graduate school. In addition to researching with faculty and grad students, SURF participants are paid for their efforts, get to attend professional development and research seminars, present their research discoveries at the SURF symposium, and enjoy social activities with other members.

Santiago Pujol, civil engineering professor and SURF mentor, says there is no better way for an undergrad to accelerate their knowledge than through this summer program.

“To actually experience and participate in research as an undergrad is something many students never get the opportunity to do — not to this degree, at least,” Pujol says. “Through SURF, students get to learn about the actual practice of civil engineering, beyond what they’ve studied and worked on in labs.”

Brian Rogers, a civil engineering student and 2016 SURF participant — who explored the strength of reinforced concrete beams with high-strength steel — says not only did his experience translate to better understanding in his coursework, but it also led to other academic opportunities.

“Before SURF, I did not know much at all about graduate school, but Professor Pujol really helped me see what that life is like and the dedication required of a grad student,” Rogers says. “I also now have an internship for the coming summer, and I am convinced that a huge reason I was able to land the opportunity is due to my SURF experience.”

Pujol says a key benefit from SURF is that it sparks students’ interest in continuing their studies beyond a bachelor’s degree.

“What the SURF program does well is show students just how interesting graduate school can be here at Purdue,” he says. “We’re always looking for promising candidates, and SURF does a great job of exposing undergrads to the work we’re doing.” For more information about the SURF program, visit eng.purdue.edu/Engr/Research/SURF.