"The IQP is one of two projects required of WPI undergraduates; it allows students to pursue hands-on, real-world research opportunities all over the world. Working in teams under the guidance of faculty advisors, students conduct their research either locally or at one of 26 WPI-sponsored project centers to address—and solve—real problems that lie at the interface of science, technology, social issues, and human needs. (WPI has sent more undergraduate engineering and science students abroad for academic research than any other university in the United States)." -WPI Website

Devin Thomas worked on his IQP in Cape Town, South Africa during the second half of the fall semester last year. They spent the time helping create a business network for small "hidden" shops that are just struggling to get by each day. During the awards presentation at Higgins House, President Berkey congratulated the winning project team and the four finalists for their impressive work, and emphasized the importance of the IQP in WPI's curriculum. Devin's group was recognized as one of four groups that made it to the final stage of consideration for the President's IQP award. 

Their project statement:
"Spaza shops provide essential services to local residents but struggle to succeed due to inadequate business skills and a weak supply chain. The goal of our project was to strengthen spaza shops by implementing the Triple Trust Organisation's programmes in Monwabisi Park and forming a spaza association. We organized a business training session, enrolled eleven people in Shop-Net, and facilitated the formation of a spaza business network. There is still room for improvement, but our work created a starting point for further development."

We are all very proud of Devin here at the Tau house for representing our fraternity to such a high regard.

Love & Respect