The 2025 Cal State Fullerton Summer Symposium will highlight student-led research and creative works on Aug. 7 from 1:30-4:15 p.m. in the Titan Student Union Portola Pavilion. This annual event, co-hosted by the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Center and Project RAISE, brings together undergraduate and graduate students to present original research and creative work developed over the summer through several key programs on campus.
Students presenting at the symposium include participants from the Summer Undergraduate Research Academy; the Engaging Graduate Students in Research, Scholarly and Creative Activities program; and the Undergraduate Research Experience.
Collectively, these programs support nearly 200 students each summer as they pursue faculty-mentored research and creative activities across a wide range of academic fields. SUReA and EG-RSCA — both supported by the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs through UROC — serve undergraduate and graduate students at CSUF. EG-RSCA is funded through a U.S. Department of Education Research and Development Infrastructure grant. URE, a summer research experience for community college students preparing to transfer into STEM majors, is hosted by Project RAISE and funded through a U.S. Department of Education HSI-STEM grant.
“The symposium is a powerful example of how students grow when they are given the space and support to explore their questions and creative ideas in a collaborative, mentored environment,” said Nicole Bonuso, director of UROC. “It’s not just about presenting a poster — it’s about building confidence, community and momentum for future academic and professional goals.”
Attendees at the symposium can expect a wide variety of posters and presentations, with student work representing such disciplines as psychology, health, business, education, biology, engineering and computer science. The poster session format encourages conversation and interaction, giving visitors the chance to learn directly from the students about their work and experiences.
For many participants, the symposium is their first opportunity to present their work to a wider audience outside the classroom.
“This event gives students a meaningful platform to share what they’ve accomplished and to engage in scholarly conversations about their work,” said Megan Drangstveit, director of Project RAISE. “It’s an important step in building confidence and developing their identity as researchers.”
The CSUF Summer Symposium offers a look into the range of student-led inquiry happening across campus, and how programs like SUReA, EG-RSCA and Project RAISE help foster discovery, creativity and academic growth through collaboration.
“We’re excited for the campus and broader community to see the incredible work the students have produced through these programs,” said Binod Tiwari, associate vice president for research and sponsored programs. “Our office is proud to support opportunities that empower students to explore research and creative activities across disciplines.”
The event is open to all members of the campus community and the public. Please note that event parking will be in the State College Parking Structure, next to the Titan Student Union. Guests can follow signage to purchase a $12 daily permit.
Attendees can RSVP by visiting the symposium registration page.