Letter from the Department Head

Although the JUMR began as a local publication for Virginia Tech undergraduates, it has quickly evolved to include research articles from undergraduates at other universities. The range of topics covered in this volume illustrates the diversity of our discipline. I believe that you will be impressed with the quality of the research and communication skills that our undergraduates are receiv- ing. The faculty are to be commended for their mentorship of these students. There is no doubt that many of these students will be inspired to continue their efforts thereby insuring the future of our fantastic discipline.