UC students recognized for achievement in undergraduate research
Each spring, the University of Cincinnati’s College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies honors students in experiential learning programs.
This month, two students were recognized for outstanding achievement in terms of the impact or depth of their undergraduate research experience. Their stories help to illustrate why the University of Cincinnati is a top five university for co-ops and internships according to U.S. News Best Colleges rankings.
Shazia Thompson, Fashion Design
Senior Shazia Thompson talks about her undergraduate research experience at the April 2025 CCPS awards luncheon. Photo/Emily Sullivan/UC
Fifth-year student Shazia Thompson is dedicated to research, creativity and mentorship in the field of fashion.
A McNair Scholar, Thompson completed three co-op rotations in fashion design along with three independent research projects, resulting in eight conference presentations including four national conferences.
Her capstone project is a four-piece fashion collection that, in her words, “reflects a journey towards authentic expression through the exploration of fashion technology and AI.”
Her research experiences so far have fueled her commitment to environmental and social advocacy in fashion.
Lyn Wang, Biochemistry with minors in Physics and Astrophysics
UC undergraduate Lyn Wang presents her research at an Entomological Society of America (ESA) conference in Phoenix, November 2024. Photo/provided
In addition to her own four reseach projects across nine semesters, senior Lyn Wang has made remarkable contributions to undergraduate research.
She has co-authored four peer-reviewed publications and presented at two national conferences. As president of the Undergraduate Research Society, she has empowered students, coordinated research funding, and strengthened UC’s research community. Wang is a mentor, tutor and advocate for others.
After graduation, Wang will pursue a PhD in physical chemistry and spectroscopy and aims eventually to teach at the college level.
About the College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies
Drawing on UC’s pioneering work in cooperative education, the College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies supports learners at any stage in their educational and professional growth. In collaboration with university, industry, government and community partners, we bridge the gap between academic achievement and career success through innovative programs, skill development and service learning.
Featured image at top: Arts and Sciences Hall reflected in the windows of University Pavilion on the University of Cincinnati's Clifton campus. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Creative + Brand
Explore Undergraduate Research at UC
- Learn how UC supports students who are curious about research careers
- Join the summer learning community for student researchers
- Browse examples of student research in the Proceedings of the Undergraduate Scholarly Showcase
Related Stories
UC Foundation reveals 2025 philanthropy winners
October 27, 2025
The University of Cincinnati Foundation recognized its Outstanding Philanthropic Volunteer Award honorees at the George Rieveschl Recognition Dinner on Oct. 23, 2025.
UC team unveils Wyandot Removal Trail across Ohio
October 24, 2025
Rebecca Wingo, an associate professor of history and director of the public history program in the University of Cincinnati’s College of Arts and Sciences, is featured in a WVXU story about new historical markers honoring the Wyandot people—the last Indigenous nation forcibly removed from Ohio.
John Updike called his letters dull. They’re anything but.
October 23, 2025
James A. Schiff, founding editor of The John Updike Review and UC English professor, edited Selected Letters of John Updike, the first comprehensive collection of the author’s correspondence. Drawing from thousands of letters spanning Updike’s life, Schiff offers new insight into the writer’s personal and literary world. The volume was edited by The New York Times.