Alex Tseng, IUP BA economics and BS mathematics/actuarial science and statistics dual baccalaureate degree student, traveled to Harrisburg with three other IUP students to participate in the Undergraduate Research at the Capitol—Pennsylvania event held on March 19, 2024.
The annual event showcases outstanding and award-winning research projects by undergraduate students from Pennsylvania's colleges and universities; provides Pennsylvania legislators an opportunity to share in the educational experiences of undergraduate students; and demonstrates the importance and value of analytical research that enriches the knowledge, cultural heritage, and economic well-being of our communities, our state, and our nation. URC-PA was held in the East Wing Rotunda, located in the Capitol Complex, Harrisburg.
As an outgrowth of research conducted for ECON 356/H/ Introduction to Econometrics, Tseng and his co-author, Alyssa Carne (BA economics/honors and BS mathematics/actuarial science and statistics dual degrees, ’23), won the Eberly College of Business Outstanding Oral Presentation Award during the 2023 IUP Scholars Forum. Alex summarized key aspects of their research methods and findings to prepare the poster presentation, “The Effect of Demographic, Socioeconomic, and Other Influences on State DUI Rates.”
The four IUP students had opportunities to interact with Pennsylvania Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman, who represents the 41st Senatorial District, as well as PA State Representative Jim Struzzi, who represents the 62nd Legislative District.
The students were accompanied by two faculty research advisors, including Department of Finance and Economics faculty member Jim Jozefowicz. The students each received travel support funding through the IUP School of Graduate Studies and Research.