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Chances to better understand global warming, take a selfie with cardboard representations of President Barack Obama and William Shakespeare and play a note or two at the Instrumental Petting Zoo were afforded to students Tuesday at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Hands-On Day and Majors Fair. 

“Sometimes we can be criticized for presenting our learning as too abstract,” said College of Arts and Sciences Dean Greg Budzban. “This Hands-On Day and Majors Fair allows us to show learning in a concrete way. Also, many students come to campus with an idea of what they want to study. This Fair allows them to get a broad idea of what CAS has to offer.”

More than 35 tables, representing various degree programs, awaited students in the Morris University Center. At the Environmental Sciences booth were two glass chambers with a graduated cylinder in each. One cylinder had baking soda and vinegar in it and emitted co2, while the other had salt and water, and gave off oxygen, said Ayo Adeyemo, graduate student, majoring in environmental sciences. Over time, the chamber with co2 gave off more heat.

“Fossil fuel and coal fracking releases co2,” Adeyemo said, “and co2 makes the earth warmer and contributes to global warming.”

Another table run by the Historical Studies Department had various old items on it. “We want people to identify the name and date of the objects,” said Dr. Anthony Cheeseboro, associate professor. Some items included a swimming pool sign from 1931, a German banknote from 1937, a Free Angela Davis button from 1970, a VHS VCR from 1980 and a palm pilot from 1997.

“I went to the Study Abroad table, because I want to travel to Spain,” said Ben Harsin, a freshman majoring in biology/pre-med and Spanish. “I know what I want to major in, but this is a good thing for those who are not certain yet. It’s good to get more information from the areas that you are interested in.”

Stephanie Williams, also a freshman majoring in biology/pre-med, found the event helpful. “I went to the biological sciences table, and they told me about an organization that can introduce you to doctors and other people in the medical field.” 

“I also went to the Volunteer Services table to learn what kinds of activities I can participate in,” Williams added. “I just like to help people.”

Information that is provided at the Hands-On Day is exciting, educational and practical, according to CAS Associate Dean Wendy Shaw. “Because many of our programs do not lead to one clearly defined occupation, as is often the case in the professional schools, it is important that students get a sense of just where our programs can lead them,” she said.

“Through the activities and conversation during Hands-On Day,” Shaw added, “we hope students get a strong message that they can pursue a degree in a College discipline that leads to both a robust career and fulfilling life.”

Photos:

SIU President Randy Dunn (left) and SIUE Interim Chancellor Steve Hansen talk to Kim Browning, Study Abroad Specialist in the Department of International Affairs. 

Dr. Jen Rehg, chair of the department of anthropology and coordinator for the forensic sciences minor, gives an explanation to College of Arts and Sciences Dean Greg Budzban. 

Playing at the Instrumental Petting Zoo booth, sponsored by the Department of Music, is from left to right: Lauren Holt on violin, first year graduate student in Suzuki Pedagogy; Carrie Beisler on cello, Suzuki instructor; Natalie Stawarski on violin, second year graduate student in Suzuki Pedagogy; and Gregory Sallie on bass, CAS freshman. 

Dr. Sharon McGee, chair of English Language and Literature, poses with William Shakespeare.