WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty University Data Science student Gwyneth Horzempa has been selected to participate in the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) prestigious Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program for the second consecutive year.
NSF REU programs are among the nation’s most competitive undergraduate research opportunities, attracting between 150 and 500 applicants from STEM disciplines across the United States. Typically, only eight to ten students are selected from each applicant pool.
This year, Horzempa received offers from five NSF REU programs seeking her participation. She ultimately selected her top-choice program, “Advancing Data Science in the Public Interest,” at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas. The program received more than 170 highly competitive applications, with Horzempa among the select few chosen to participate.
The SMU program provides undergraduate students with opportunities to conduct advanced research while exploring how data science can be used to address real-world challenges and serve the public good.
“I am so excited to spend the summer researching in a field that truly interests me, and I am grateful for the education I have gotten so far at West Liberty that has helped me get to this point,” said Horzempa.
Dr. Raymond Holsapple, Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Physical Sciences and Mathematics, said Horzempa’s continued success reflects both her exceptional abilities and dedication to her studies.
“Gwyneth is one of the most talented and dedicated mathematics students I have worked with since joining West Liberty University in 2018,” said Holsapple. “In addition to being highly intelligent, she is kind, humble, and exceptionally driven. I encouraged Gwyneth to apply to the NSF REU program last year, and this summer will be her second consecutive summer participating in this highly competitive program. After finishing two REUs, she will have a high probability of being awarded an NSF Graduate Research Fellowship next year!”
The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program is one of the nation’s most prestigious awards for graduate students pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
Horzempa’s selection marks another significant achievement for West Liberty University’s growing Data Science program and highlights the University’s commitment to providing students with meaningful experiential learning and research opportunities.
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. To apply or learn more about West Liberty University, visit westliberty.edu.
Media Contact:
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu
