Martha Rodriguez-Salazar and Moses Anabila, University of Nevada, Reno graduate research assistants from the Center for Research Design and Analysis (CRDA), presented at the 17th annual Western Users of SAS Software (WUSS) Conference in San Jose, Calif. The conference was held in early September.

CRDA, a University statistical research center, uses SAS products (statistical analysis software) in conducting research. To illustrate how the center uses SAS, Rodriguez-Salazer presented a poster entitled, "Using SAS to Enhance Interviewing Productivity at the University-based Center for Research Design and Analysis.”

She received questions and positive feedback from several SAS users regarding the poster.

“I thought it went very well,” said Rodriguez-Salazar, a graduate student seeking a master’s degree in foreign languages and literatures. “We worked really hard on it.”

Anabila gave a speech presentation on "Trend Analysis of Health Indicators and Risky Health Behaviors in Nevada." He thought it was a good learning experience and appreciated the comments he received.

“It puts me in a good position to do better next time,” said Anabila, a Ph.D. student studying resource economics.

Both students won full scholarships prior to attending the conference, covering all travel expenses. It’s the first time two students from the same institution have been awarded full scholarships to the conference..

“UNR becomes even more marketable,” said Anabila of the milestone. Anabila won a full scholarship one other time for a SAS conference held in North Carolina. “Most people have not heard of CRDA, so we get to market the center as well.”

About 300 people attended the conference, including 19 students. Rodriguez-Salazar and Anabila want to encourage students to attend and present at next year’s WUSS conference. They agree it’s beneficial, providing chances to learn and to meet professionals.

“It’s a great opportunity for students and people that use SAS,” Rodriguez-Salazar said.