At TCU, we are preparing the next generation of global leaders to make an impact. Whether it’s in local communities here in Fort Worth or in another country, the research conducted by our students is shaping the way we approach problems and generate solutions.
Each year, students across campus participate in the Boller Competition, an undergraduate research showcase that displays the projects our students have researched and designed. Several of our colleges and departments across campus host showcases prior to the competition to highlight the work of our talented students. Check out some of the projects that students have worked on in various disciplines!
Japan: An Inside Look Into Human Trafficking and Failed Policies
Esra Ghanim is a student with both the AddRan College of Liberal Arts and the Bob Schieffer College of Communication. During the AddRan Student Research and Creativity Symposium, she presented her research on Japan’s failure to address human trafficking issues. She found that trafficking disproportionately affects individuals in Japan who are underrepresented in Japanese policymaking. Through this process, she learned how domestic human trafficking policies can have far-reaching global consequences.
“I first began exploring Japan’s human trafficking policies in Dr. Michael Strausz’s Politics of Japan class. With his significant advising and support, along with the academic freedom TCU provides, I was able to expand on my initial curiosity and develop my research further.”- Esra G. ’25, Political Science and Journalism
Making a Positive Impact in the Real-World
Mary Wilson is part of the College of Science and Engineering as a psychology student. Through a professor in the department, she was able to secure an internship that allowed her to research and apply skills from the classroom to treat patients at the Moncrief Cancer Institute.
“One of my professors, Dr. Broom, helped me find an internship during my freshman year
in the psychology department. With her help, I had the opportunity to work as an undergraduate
research assistant in the AYA Psycho-Oncology Department at Moncrief Cancer Institute.
There, I learned valuable research skills and had many interactions with patients.
Because of my connections in the psychology department, I was able to earn two publications,
present at a conference, and get firsthand experience with patients.”- Mary W. ’26, Psychology
Facial Tattoos' Impact On Job Hiring Process
Suzie Brewer is a communication studies and writing double major. At the Schieffer Showcase, she presented a research proposal analyzing how face tattoos can impact someone in the job hiring process as a candidate. Using the Schieffer Media Insights Lab and iMotions software, Suzie gained a better understanding of how theories can be applied to experiments and research.
“TCU has helped me through the research process by giving me space to explore topics that are interesting to me as well as give me resources to be successful. I’ve participated in 5 research fairs in my time at TCU (three specifically with the Bob Schieffer College of Communication), and have felt constant support and encouragement from faculty and staff.”- Suzie B. ’25, Communication Studies and Writing
Understanding Language Growth & Development in Children
Jade Malague is a Harris College of Nursing and Health Sciences student working in the Child Hearing, Language, Literacy and Deafness Lab (CHLLD Lab). In this laboratory environment, she is studying how various characteristics and environments contribute to language development in children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Her research primarily focuses on how Speech Language Pathologists can support monolingual and bilingual students as they develop their speech habits.
“TCU has established an excellent foundation for students to engage in research. Through my involvement in the CHLLD Lab, I have had the opportunity to work directly with children with hearing loss and learn the intricacies of the research process. In addition to a hands-on learning experience, TCU has also provided me with the support and guidance of exceptional professors! I’m so grateful that the research community at TCU has instilled in me the confidence and preparedness to contribute effectively to my field.”-Jade M. ’26, Speech Language Pathology
Our students are working to pave the way towards a bright future. For example, students in Fine Arts are partnering with the Fort Worth Zoo to find ways to blend art and ecology. Additionally, students in the College of Education are working in the Alice Neeley Special Education Research and Service (ANSERS) Institute to create innovative teaching models for students with learning disabilities and special needs.
We believe that education is more than what takes place inside the classroom. It’s about turning knowledge into action through hands-on research that will lead to meaningful discoveries. Come visit us and apply to learn how you can make an impact as you Lead On ®!
Sophia Vargas ’25 studies strategic communication at TCU with a minor in political science, and is from Northern California. She is a digital media intern and operations intern for the Office of Admission. Sophia is also involved with her local church and the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter on campus.