[Clinton, N.C.]- On Saturday, April 13, 2024, Sampson Community College’s (SCC) Psychology Club attended the Carolinas Psychology Conference (CPC) for 2024 at Campbell University. During the event, SCC students were able to present research and learn more about current psychological findings from various professionals and peers.

The CPC is one of the longest running undergraduate psychology conferences in the nation. Its purpose is to provide undergraduates in psychology with the opportunity to share research in front of peers and faculty in a professional, yet friendly setting.

(From L) Alan Gomez, Yamil Pena-Ventura, Armando Avenlino-Ortiz, Stefany Serrano, and Sarah Burgin pictured at the 2024 CPC.

This year’s keynote address was given by Dr. Antonio Puente, who spoke on “The Role of Psychology in Societal Challenges: What Can You Do to Solve Today’s Problems.” Born in Cuba, Puente currently teaches psychology at UNCW, maintains a private practice in clinical neuropsychology, and serves as the APA’s President of International Psychology.

Afterwards, break-out sessions began with university and community college students from across North and South Carolina presenting their research on various psychological topics. Representing SCC, students Alan Gomez and Yamil Pena-Ventura shared their work regarding social and community psychology: “How do you show respect in your family?”

(From L) SCC’s Armando Avenlino-Ortiz, Yamil Pena-Ventura, and Alan Gomez posed with keynote speaker, Dr. Antonio Puente (second from left)

Their study explored the similarities and differences between various ages and genders within the Hispanic community. They conducted a sample of 58 individuals who answered demographic questions and two questionnaires: 16-Item Expectations of Family Loyalty of Children Toward Elderly Relatives and The Mexican American Cultural Values Scales for Adolescents and Adults. Though students expected to see older females placing a higher importance on respect, results revealed higher scores for males and those in age group 40 – 49.

Sarah Burgin, Psychology Instructor & leader of the Psychology Club, remarked on the event, “I’m very proud of Alan and Yamil for their hard work and excellent presentation on their research. We had a lot of fun and learned a lot from other students and professionals. If you are interested in learning more about the SCC Psychology Club or attending this conference next year, please contact me!” 

For more information about SCC’s Psychology Club or how to get involved, visit www.sampsoncc.edu/clubs-organizations or email sburgin@sampsoncc.edu

About Sampson Community College:  Sampson Community College is a member of the North Carolina Community College System, located in Clinton, NC in Sampson County. The college offers many programs to include two-year degrees, college transfer, continuing education and workforce development options and early college education. SCC is committed to the principles of equal educational and employment opportunities for all.