Graduate Students Shine at Three Minute Thesis Competition

By Andi Anderson

Graduate students at Illinois State University captivated the audience with their innovative research at the Three Minute Thesis competition. Kathleen Tierney, a master’s student, won first place with her study on reducing weaning stress in beef calves.

She compared the calves' transition to weaning to new students' first days at college, highlighting the stress both experience. Tierney used heart rate monitors to compare two weaning methods: abrupt weaning and fenceline weaning. Her results showed no significant differences in stress levels between the two methods.

The competition, held on February 27, featured ten participants who condensed their extensive research into engaging three-minute presentations. The event was attended by university officials, faculty, and students, and judged by a panel of industry professionals.

Sierra Mack-Erb, an anthropology master’s student, placed second with her research on community-centered design in rural areas. Her multimedia exhibit is currently on display at the Illinois Art Station. Mack-Erb emphasized the importance of making research accessible and engaging for a general audience.

Tuba Yasmin Lubna, a master’s student in agriculture, won the People’s Choice award for her research on converting cover crops into renewable energy. Her work aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change. Lubna credited her mentors for their support and guidance.

The Three Minute Thesis competition, organized by the Graduate School, showcases the scholarly work of master’s and doctoral students.

This year’s participants represented various disciplines, demonstrating the interdisciplinary nature of contemporary research. Dr. S. Gavin Weiser, Interim Director of the Graduate School, praised the students for their innovative approaches to solving global challenges.

The event highlighted the importance of communicating research in an accessible manner, ensuring that valuable knowledge reaches a broader audience. The winners will advance to the Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools contest, where they will compete with students from other universities.

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