Noise-induced hearing loss affects about 40 million adults in the United States ages 20-69. This type of hearing loss is caused by exposure to loud sounds, either from a sudden loud noise like a firework or from repeated exposure to loud sounds over time, like a lawn mower. It can be prevented by wearing hearing protection, but for people in certain industries, earplugs can make work more challenging. That’s why an interdisciplinary team of researchers at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) are working to find the best earplugs for musicians and referees.Learn more about research at UMD: https://research.d.umn.edu/

A group of engineering students from the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) toured a net zero home in Duluth to learn more about the design and mechanics required for the home to produce more energy than it uses. This learning experience was facilitated by the Institute on the Environment (IonE), a University of Minnesota System effort to develop the next generation of leaders in sustainability.Read more about this experience:

Hmong Heritage Night at UMD was filled with food, fashion, dance, and music! Hosted by HLUB, this annual event celebrates and shares Hmong culture with the campus and community.Learn more about campus life at UMD: https://campus-life.d.umn.edu/

Hmong Heritage Night featured food, fashion, dance and musical performances. Hosted by UMD’s Hmong Living in Unity and Balance (HLUB), this annual event is an opportunity for Hmong students to share their culture with UMD and the broader community. Alivia Lor, a psychology and cultural entrepreneurship student, captivated the audience with an original dance featuring decorative dragon puppets she handcrafted herself in an effort to inspire her peers to connect with their heritage.Read more about the event: https://news.d.umn.edu/articles/hmong-heritage-night Learn more about campus life at UMD: https://campus-life.d.umn.edu/

Learn more about the ways UMD's Career Center helps students prepare for their future careers: https://career.d.umn.edu/

Varshini Bhavanam studies computer science at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD). Outside of class, she serves as president of the International Club, an experience she says has built her confidence as a student and provided opportunities to share her culture. In her studies, Bhavanam is learning several coding languages and experimenting with developing mobile applications geared toward helping low income families and college students. She loves helping others and has enjoyed learning how technology can make a positive impact in people’s lives.Learn more about campus life at UMD: https://campus-life.d.umn.edu/ Learn more about computer science at UMD: https://scse.d.umn.edu/departments-and-programs/computer-science