Edinboro University graduate Megan Kunst (left) was one of the first students in the school’s Institute for Forensic Sciences. Butler native Megan Kunst finds her place through well-rounded Edinboro University experience When Megan Kunst chose Edinboro University, she had no idea that Edinboro’s commitment to hands-on learning and student-faculty collaboration, along with her passion for art, math and science, would lead to a national research award, experience in cutting-edge forensic facial reconstruction and bright career prospects. As a member of EU’s Honors Program, which offers opportunities to excel through classwork, studentfaculty research and civic engagement, Kunst conducted a range of projects alongside faculty scholars. In 2015, her Visual Arts research earned first place at the National Collegiate Honors Conference. The project explored linear perspective in art through application of mathematical formulas. In addition to the opportunity to compete against academically talented peers nationwide, Kunst gained hands-on experience in her field and built lasting professional relationships with her mentors. “I could not have asked for more supportive and generous professors,” Kunst said. “I was fortunate to find a group of other students and faculty that became my Edinboro family.” As one of the first student scholars of EU’s Institute for Forensic Sciences, Kunst worked closely with three faculty members on a major research project involving models of a human skull made with a 3-D printer in an EU technology lab. Utilizing advanced techniques to create an approximation of a person’s face based on skeletal features and knowledge of anatomy, osteology and anthropology, her research is contributing to a bestpractices protocol for forensic artists to use in the identification of human remains. Before graduating Summa Cum Laude in December with dual bachelor’s degrees in Studio Arts and Art Education, Kunst capped her Edinboro journey with a teachabroad opportunity in Ireland, spending 10 days sharing her passion for art with students in grades 7 through 12. “I gained a great foundation of skills that I am very thankful for,” Kunst said. “Because of that foundation, I feel very confident about my future in the classroom.” While every student’s path is unique, Megan Kunst’s exceptional success demonstrates the unique combination of high-quality opportunities inside and outside the classroom that are the hallmarks of the Edinboro experience. Learn more at www.edinboro.edu. 31
NACAC 2017
To see the actual publication please follow the link above