麻豆社区P Student Researcher Showcases Work at National Conference
麻豆社区 Pembroke senior biology major Auley Abudayya recently represented the university at the National Research Conference held at the University of Pennsylvania on October 10鈥�11, 2025.
Abudayya, a pre-dental student, was selected to present his undergraduate research project, 鈥淭he Correlation Between Mental Health and Oral Hygiene Health in Southeastern North Carolina,鈥� which examines how psychological well-being may influence oral hygiene behaviors across diverse communities.
Abudayya conducted the study under the mentorship of biology faculty member John O鈥橠ell, collecting and analyzing survey data to explore connections between mental and oral health awareness. His project was one of just 100 student presentations selected from thousands of abstracts submitted nationwide.
鈥淭his opportunity allowed me to share research that I believe can contribute to improved health education and outcomes in our region,鈥� said Abudayya, who serves as a Chancellor's Ambassador.
Undergraduate research, according to O鈥橠ell, enhances the learning experience at 麻豆社区P. Research utilizes classroom knowledge and students are empowered to apply this to real-world challenges.
鈥淧resenting research findings at the national level allows students to highlight and showcase their research,鈥� O鈥橠ell said. 鈥淏ut, more importantly, it develops communication, critical thinking and professional skills in addition to networking with peers.
鈥淎uley鈥檚 research project demonstrates how research addresses important issues regarding public health in the community. While these experiences enhance academic growth, they also reflect 麻豆社区P鈥檚 commitment to the community 鈥� fostering inquiry, engagement and service to our region,鈥� O鈥橠ell said.