GREENVILLE, Pa.—Thiel College first-year student Sam Mitchell ’29 recently presented original research at the Lycoming Undergraduate Humanities Research Conference hosted by Lycoming College in Williamsport, Pa.
Mitchell’s presentation, “The Predominance of Watchfulness in Literature and in Modern Society: An Analysis of The Minority Report, The Giver, 1984, and Surveys Conducted,” was featured during the conference’s “Censorship & Control: They’re Watching Us” session alongside presenters from institutions including Bryn Mawr College, Penn State University, Messiah University and the University of Scranton.
The paper originated from work Mitchell, an English major seeking a secondary education certificate, completed in an Honors 113 course at Thiel College and was accepted for presentation at the regional conference, which featured undergraduate humanities research from colleges and universities across Pennsylvania and the surrounding region.
“Sam represented Thiel exceptionally well in a strong field of presenters,” said James Pedas Endowed Chair of Communication and Professor of English Mary Theresa Hall, Ph.D. “Presenting research at a conference as a first-year student takes preparation and confidence, and she demonstrated both throughout the event. I’m proud of her enthusiasm and willingness to participate in what I hope will be a life-long love of learning and professional engagement in academia.”
The annual conference was held April 11, and brought together undergraduate scholars for panel discussions and presentations in literature, history, philosophy, rhetoric and cultural studies. Participants represented institutions including Swarthmore College, Ithaca College, Penn State University, Bryn Mawr College and Elizabethtown College, among others.
Thiel College students Pereston Peterson ’28 and Ireland Anderson ’27 also attended the conference’s numerous presentations and appreciated the opportunity to meet students from various schools who are interested in the humanities.
Mitchell’s participation reflects Thiel College’s emphasis on undergraduate research, academic inquiry and experiential learning opportunities for students early in their college careers.
About Thiel College
Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.