2023 Davis-Bahcall Scholars explore the world of modern scientific research

SURF’s 2023 eight students from South Dakota schools took a journey of a lifetime. The students, all selected for the Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program, traveled from the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) to universities and national laboratories in the Midwest to a laboratory in Italy. During this worldwide trek, the first since 2019, they gained valuable insight into the world of scientific research, and connected with peers, mentors, and science and engineering experts.

Designed to help rising university freshmen and sophomores entering STEM fields develop an understanding of where their passions could take them, the Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program demystifies these subjects by exposing students to what professionals do every day. The students spent four weeks exploring leading universities and laboratories including SURF; Argonne National Laboratory and Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Illinois; and Gran Sasso National Laboratory in Italy.

“The Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program comes at a critical time for the students as they have just finished or are just beginning their first year in college,” said Brianna Mount, associate professor of physics at Black Hills State University (BHSU). “This is a time for decisions that may seem daunting and can be a difficult transition from high school to university, where classes may be more challenging. This program helps them fine-tune their goals and gives them an idea of what a career could look like after university.”

Kristin Rath, an educator at Spearfish Middle School, and Daniel Swenson, a professor of mathematics at Black Hills State University, chaperoned the Scholars throughout the four-week program.

“The Davis-Bahcall Scholars are smart and ambitious, but I was more impressed by their level of curiosity and engagement with whatever we were learning about,” Swenson said. “This was an amazing opportunity and, in my opinion, they took full advantage, through their hard work, curiosity, engagement, and positive attitude. It was a pleasure to work with these students.”

Rath, who has been with the program for several years, echoed Swenson’s sentiments. “The Davis-Bahcall Scholars continue to inspire, year after year,” she said. “The students consistently want to learn and gain the most they can out of all their experiences. As we visit with scientists, engineers, technicians, and other fantastic guides, students are exposed to a wide range of where a STEM degree could take them.”

For the 2023 Scholars, this year’s trip was “extraordinary,” “amazing,” “exciting.” They forged friendships with each other and connections to scientists around the world. And for all of them, it was an adventure they will never forget.

In their own words

“The trip was amazing. It gave me a glimpse into how fulfilling science can be and how I can pursue it. Before the trip, I had done some minor research into medical physics. After talking to physicists and scientists who have worked on medical technology, I know that it is my calling.” —Joseph Bumann, senior, Washington High School

“The program expanded my horizons by introducing me to groundbreaking science not only close to home by also across the sea. What I most enjoyed was making lifelong connections with scientists that are leading the cutting-edge of science and with my fellow Davis-Bachall Scholars. The friendships and connections made through this program will benefit as I continue to grow as an engineer. Words cannot express how grateful I’m to have been able to embark on this spectacular journey.” —Cara Ronish, senior, Hill City High School

“The Davis-Bahcall Scholars program was an extraordinary experience! Every moment was filled with joy and adventure, from the forged friendships to the unforgettable road trips and deliciously unusual meals. The program offered me an endless wealth of knowledge, and every lecture provided a fresh perspective on the captivating realm of science. My eyes were opened to the remarkable ways mathematics serves as a fundamental language for understanding the natural world, and for this, I am genuinely grateful.” —Ike-Njoku Theresa Ahunna, freshman, Augustana University

“Through the Davis-Bahcall experience, I’ve begun to understand what makes this world so beautiful through the lens of science—from nanotechnologies to invisible particles. It has exposed me to science and research in ways I never thought possible. The work that goes into STEM research has inspired me and confirmed my enthusiasm for science. I am unbelievably grateful for this experience, to learn from these incredible people, to meet seven amazing students, and to learn from a world of extraordinary science!” —Sophie Schmid, senior, Stevens High School

“The people we met along the way were the highlight of my trip. From tour guides to research scientists to theoretical physicists, I met the real people behind the science I love, and that gave me a whole new appreciation for it. The collaborative spirit and encouraging atmospheres of all the labs we toured assured me that, by pursuing physics and someday working in research, I will be joining an international, intercultural, incredible community of genuinely good people. And that, even more than all the awe-inspiring science we saw, is so exciting.” 

—Grace Davis, senior, Brookings High School

“The Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program impacted my view of STEM fields. It was impressive to see how far science has come and inspiring to think that I could be a part of that impact. Through tours of labs my eyes have been opened to all the diverse opportunities that are available for students after college.” —Laura Jensen, senior, Rapid City Central High School

“As we traveled from lab to lab, I noticed a recurring theme: the scientists we met were as passionate about learning from their work as my group members. Even in Europe, the researchers we met all "spoke" the universal language of curiosity. As I go on in pursuit of an engineering degree, I will remember that passion for science and research can be contagious if curiosity is nurtured.” — William Kuhl, freshman, South Dakota Mines

“I sincerely enjoyed the amount of face-to-face connection with scientists, at each step of the research process. The connections formed from talking to graduate and PhD students and researchers painted a very vivid picture of the journey from student or intern to full-fledged researcher. Although I can’t say yet whether this path is right for me, it’s something I’ll contemplate carefully while looking into higher education. I’m thrilled by the exposure gained, as it has opened a whole new realm of possibilities for my future career”! —Connor Matthies, freshman, South Dakota State University

Since 2009, 148 students have participated in SURF’s Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program. The program is named in honor of experimental physicist Ray Davis Jr. and theoretical physicist John Bahcall. Davis, who built his experiment at the 4850 Level of the Homestake Mine, received the Nobel Prize in 2002 for his groundbreaking solar neutrino research. Bahcall developed the theoretical model of the Sun and of solar neutrino production, which guided Davis’ research.

This program is supported by the South Dakota Science and Technology Authority, First PREMIER Bank, the South Dakota Space Grant Consortium, and BHSU.