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Fourteen students from seven different departments competed in the University of North Georgia's (ÐÁÓÈÀïÅ®ÓÅ) fourth Annual Research Pitch competition. The 2023 competition was held Nov. 1 at the Dahlonega Campus and was sponsored by the Center for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (CURCA).

"Our fourth Annual Research Pitch was the largest one we've had so far. It was great to see all the interesting research our students are up to," Dr. Diogo Pinheiro, assistant director for CURCA and associate professor of sociology, said. "We are thankful to all the mentors, judges and the emcee. We hope to build on the success of this year and make next year's pitch, to take place in Gainesville, even bigger and more successful."

The first-place recipient was Ariana Harvey, a senior, pursuing a degree in psychology. "Can Mindful Self-Compassion Lessen the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health?" explores correlations between social media, mental health, mindfulness, and self-compassion.

"It feels great to have won first place in the pitch. Everyone made a great effort with their presentations, and there was some tough competition. All in all, I just feel very proud of myself," the Dacula, Georgia, resident said. 

A tie for second place was awarded to Theo Holcombe and Angela Perez for "Analyzing Group Formation and Altruistic Tendencies using a Resource-Based Card Game" and Christian Dale for "Analyzing Avoidance of Healthcare among Emerging Adults."

Holcombe is a senior from Jefferson, Georgia, pursuing a degree in psychology with a minor in anthropology, and Perez is a senior from Calhoun, Georgia, pursuing a degree in psychology with a minor in human services. They presented on behalf of their group, which also included Devin Marshall, Tori Mullins and Destiny Johnson. Holcombe said the preparation and presentation have given him a better understanding of what graduate-level presenting entails.

Dale, a senior from Gainesville, Georgia, is pursuing a degree in psychology and a minor in neuroscience. He said he is excited to share the results of his work once it is completed.

Third-place recipient Lillian Hayes pitched "Elucidating the Effects of Artificial Lighting on African Mammal Behavior." Hayes is a junior from Johns Creek, Georgia, pursuing a degree in biology.