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The Spark is the official blog of Alfred University, created to illuminate the dynamic experiences, creative achievements, and unique perspectives of our student community. The Spark captures the essence of what it means to be a Saxon. Whether you're a prospective student dreaming of your next chapter, or a current Saxon shaping your journey, let The Spark guide you. 

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How AU Students Gain Research Experience Across the Country

Posted By Cameron Begue
Oct 19, 2026   |   Current Students   Engineering   Pre-College  

At Alfred University’s Inamori School of Engineering, students learn the chemistry, physics, and technical skills that go into all types of engineering, from ceramics to mechanical. That’s not all that goes into becoming an engineer. Students need real experience through hands-on research, mentorship, and opportunities to work alongside peers and experts in the field.

Through a National Science Foundation (NSF) S-STEM program, students are gaining that experience while seeing the exciting opportunities possible in advanced ceramic and glass engineering. 

“The goal was to expose students to the breadth of the field, from fundamental materials research to applications in areas such as semiconductors, energy, and aerospace and hypersonics,” said Gabrielle Gaustad ’04, dean of Alfred University’s Inamori School of Engineering.

Over the summer, Alfred students worked alongside peers from across the country and gained hands-on lab experience. They also connected with faculty and graduate students at the cutting edge of their field. Program hosts included Alfred University, Colorado School of Mines, and Missouri University of Science and Technology.

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New Perspectives

Mariama Diallo, a sophomore majoring in ceramic engineering, participated in the program and traveled to Colorado and Missouri for the first time to expand her understanding of materials science. During the program, Mariama became familiar with equipment like an X-ray diffraction spectrometer, which measures a material’s atomic and molecular structure, and an optical furnace used for sintering. 

“It definitely made me realize how much we use what materials science engineers make in our daily lives and how applicable it is to almost everything you do,” said Mariama Diallo.

Research opportunities like this help students like Mariama develop valuable critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students become familiar not only with the equipment they’ll use but also with brilliant researchers and materials science experts. Connections like this are the seeds that grow into promising opportunities for research, internships, and careers. 

“In research, the answer is often unknown. Students have to figure out what questions to ask, troubleshoot when things don't work, interpret unexpected results, and decide what to do next," said Gaustad.

Alfred University continues to expand opportunities like this, helping students gain hands-on experience and build professional relationships. Applications for the program’s second cohort next summer are expected to open at the beginning of the spring semester.

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About the Writer

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Meet Cameron

Cameron Begue is a junior at Alfred University from Long Island, New York, majoring in Political Science with a minor in Communication Studies. As a student writer for The Spark, Cameron highlights the unique community and culture at Alfred University. His interests include history, current events and physical media. He is a passionate writer and member of Alfred’s Fiat Lux newspaper, hoping to build a successful career in journalism. On the weekends, Cameron enjoys browsing local thrift stores and visiting friends across campus.

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