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Seton Hall University

College of Arts and Sciences Nurtures Budding Scientists through Project SEED  

Project Seed On September 26, 100 proud high school students gathered for the culmination of what many considered a truly unforgettable summer of research and mentorship.

Project SEED, which stands for Summer Experience for the Economically Disadvantaged, is a summer research program that allows high school students entering their junior and senior years to work beside mentors and conduct their own research, thus experiencing what it is like to be a scientist. Local high school students participate in the summer program for eight weeks at different host institutions. This past summer, Seton Hall University hosted 10 students in the Biological Sciences, and Chemistry and Biochemistry Departments.

"The SEED program was definitely an opportunity of a lifetime. The professors and the environment itself were very comforting, welcoming and life changing. I look forward to continuing my research next year!" says Allizea Kennedy, a SEED participant from Irvington High School who spent the summer at Seton Hall. 

After the summer sessions were completed, approximately 100 students were invited to Seton Hall to present their research at a poster session. Students and their mentors, along with their high school science teachers, gathered in the Beck Rooms A, B and C of the Walsh Library. Students presented their research to the judges, which consisted of teachers, mentors, officers and representatives of the North Jersey Section of the American Chemical Society. Each student received a certificate and an award based on the judging scores.

Father Gerald Buonopane, Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Seton Hall and Project SEED mentor, worked with students over the summer as they studied the antioxidant activity of essential oils, as well as the effects of cold plasma processing. "We determined that there was indeed a possible effect of cold plasma on the antioxidant activity of these oils," said Oscar Cosme, a student working with Father Buonopane. "I was very impressed with the quality of the research these students presented," said Father Buonopane.

Project SEED was created by the American Chemical Society in order to provide new and exciting opportunities for underprivileged students. Students are exposed to science, math and writing in a hands on, research-based way that allows them to get comfortable in a field where they otherwise might not be. Students receive a fellowship award for their participation and the chance to win a Project SEED scholarship.

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