BSD’s statistics seminar is structured to facilitate the practical application of students' knowledge in real-world scenarios, enhancing student engagement. Most lectures revolve around one central question that is thoroughly explored and answered. Each unit includes an experiment or activity designed to underscore key concepts. For instance, a taste test comparing Pepsi and Coke illustrates probability experiments, while predicting March Madness brackets is an example of linear regression. This structure ensures a clear understanding of the learning process and the practical application of knowledge.

In late September 2023, students—typically working in pairs—begin formulating research questions, which they will address by collecting and analyzing their data. The processes of data collection and statistical analysis are comprehensively covered in class. Approximately every month, students revisit their projects to apply newly acquired classroom material to their ongoing research questions, closely mimicking the experience of conducting an undergraduate thesis.

At the end of the academic year, we culminate our efforts in a celebrated event known as the Statistics Symposium. During this evening celebration, students present research posters, one-page articles summarizing their research findings, and ten-minute oral presentations on their studies. Attendees include current students and alumni who have opportunities to engage with guest speakers from various professions who utilize statistics extensively within their fields. This year marked our second annual symposium; its success was underscored by four prize winners in the PA Statistical Poster Competition.

Meaghan Volek, BSD math instructor and seminar leader, sums up the seminar's benefits: “The symposium is a testament to the significant student ownership within our academic community. It is a platform where everything is driven by student initiative, from the research posters to the one-page articles summarizing their findings and the ten-minute oral presentations on their studies.”