My name is Myrto Kampouris. I am a junior at the George Washington University studying civil engineering and assisting Professor Silva in his research regarding structures designed to withstand seismic events. By running small-scale experiments testing for the coefficient of static and kinetic friction between two wooden surfaces, I gained a deeper understanding of the concept of friction. During the process, I used MATLAB and GOM Correlate, a digital image correlation software, to test and analyze our data with the help of Olivia Lee, a high school intern.
The biggest challenge for me this summer was getting started. I overcame the challenge of creating an initial design for the apparatus by testing out different designs once I knew what features it needed to have. This project taught me that the research process never ends; once one finds an answer to something, there are always more questions that arise. Through this opportunity, I developed ways in which the concepts of static and kinetic friction can be used in a preventative manner during earthquake relief, and I hope to continue to challenge the conclusions we came to and explore further possibilities.
Even before becoming a Clare Boothe Luce Scholar, I was surprised at how simple getting involved in undergraduate research was. During my sophomore year class with Professor Silva, he told us about his research in the high bay in the Science and Engineering Hall. Naturally, my curiosity led me to ask questions about this subject during his office hours. Soon after, Professor Silva allowed me to check out the progress of his project in the high bay, and I came back every week to contribute where I could. Eventually, I was given more meaningful tasks and became fully involved in the research process. Although it may seem intimidating, I strongly urge any GW students ––especially women in STEM––who are interested in participating in undergraduate research to reach out to professors for undergraduate opportunities.