The goal of this conference is to provide a platform for Brown undergraduates to share their academic work in areas they are passionate about. In this year's series event, three chosen applicants will discuss the following topics of their choice:

Ashton Lam ’22, International and Public Affairs (Development Track), Economics - Climate Change: Catalyst and Contributor of Human Security Threats Among Vulnerable Populations

Climate change will undoubtedly prove to be one of the greatest challenges of this century. Whereas developed countries may have adequate resources to address such changes, developing countries and their populations are particularly at risk, not only from climate change’s immediate impact but also from its correlation to development and conflict. This presentation will examine such challenges in the context of chronic human vulnerability and cover original recommendations on how to mobilize climate-related humanitarian action more effectively and practically.

Asa Turok ’24, Political Science - How to Join QAnon

"QAnon'' is the hottest buzzword in today’s American political zeitgeist. The right-wing conspiracy theory has spread from secluded internet message boards to the U.S. Capitol, with elected members of Congress openly embracing the conspiracy. How did this internet conspiracy spread so fast to individuals so historically inept at using the internet?

John Lin ’23, Health Systems and Policy, Biology - Price Transparency in Health Care: Problems and Solutions

The US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has recently implemented price transparency requirements for hospitals, aiming to slow the exorbitant rise in healthcare costs. However, enforcement has been spotty, and penalties have been minimal, leading many health policy experts to worry about its effectiveness. In this presentation, I will discuss my research on the effectiveness of federal price transparency requirements, the increase in healthcare prices, and the potential for state-sponsored price transparency programs.

Student Events

Hosted by Watson's Student Advisory Council.