"CBU provided me with a strong foundation in the scientific knowledge and research skills required in my field. This combination has allowed me to transition into my research fellowship with ease and confidence."
Quick Facts
Program: M.S. in Kinesiology
Concentration: Exercise Science
Graduation Year: 2019
Current Job Title: Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) Fellow; US Army Research Institute
of Environmental Medicine (USARIEM)
Hometown: Redlands, CA
Current City: Boston, MA
Life at CBU
Why did you choose your program? What interested you in this particular field of study?
I was a junior circuit and collegiate tennis player, which led me to pursue an undergraduate
kinesiology degree. I entered CBU's program wanting to learn more about exercise science.
I initially entered the program with the intent to finish as quickly as possible,
as I was also accepted into a Doctor of Physical Therapy program, but decided to withdraw
and focus on a research-oriented career.
What did you like about being in this program at CBU?
Two things I enjoyed most at CBU were the hands-on approach and student-driven research.
From day one, you are in the lab using all the equipment. It is engaging, exciting,
and it facilitated great interactions with professors right off the bat. Second, the
ability to explore your interests in the lab spaces was critical for me. In the graduate
program, you are given freedom to have your own research time and learn new skills.
It fostered an environment of trust and collaboration with faculty and was an excellent
way to develop my own research path.
What did you think about your professors?
The range of expertise each professor provides is without a doubt a top strength of
the kinesiology program. From clinical, to strength and conditioning, to research—the
diverse knowledge each professor brings to the table is phenomenal. It allowed me
to experience each subset of the field and find my calling, which turned out to be
environmental physiology research.
How did you grow (spiritually, socially, educationally) while in this program at CBU?
One of my favorite memories will always be just hanging out in the lab with friends
and exploring science. I made friendships with peers and professors that will last
a lifetime!
Did your program help you figure out your purpose?
Yes, I had drastic switch from physical therapy to physiology research. Countless
hours of student-driven research and faculty mentorship solidified my decision to
become a researcher and find my purpose.
Life after CBU
What have you done since graduating?
Following networking at a research conference where I was presenting my thesis work,
I relocated to the Boston area where I accepted a research fellowship with USARIEM.
During this transition, I was able to publish my master's thesis in the Journal of Thermal Biology, a journal which specializes in environmental physiology. In my current position,
I am involved in research studies which assess the effects of extreme environments
on the human body; with a focus on outcomes that improve the health of our soldiers.
Also, I am currently in the final stages of publication for a paper which examines
differences between men and women in their response to cold environments. Additionally,
I am enrolled in the Medical Statistics Certificate Program through Stanford University
(Online).
How has your program and time at CBU prepared you for your life and career after college?
CBU provided me with a strong foundation in the scientific knowledge and research
skills required in my field. This combination has allowed me to transition into my
research fellowship with ease and confidence.
Is there anything you learned at CBU that you still use in your professional life
today?
Seeking mentorship and growth! The one thing I learned was to seek help from experts
in the field. During graduate school, especially during thesis research, having a
strong relationship with your mentor is crucial. It can be daunting to seek help from
those more established than you, but it was something that I felt was welcomed at
CBU, and I have carried this mentality into my current position. I never felt intimidated
to ask questions at CBU.
How are you making a difference in the world? How are you living your purpose?
At my current institute, our main research focus is soldier health, and ensuring that
the men and women that serve in our military are safe. In this role, I am able to
combine my two passions—research and helping others. It is rewarding to know that
the studies we conduct benefit soldier and civilian health and advance our understanding
in the physiological research community.
Would you recommend CBU to others?
Of course! A top notch education coupled with professors that are dedicated to supporting
you during and after your time at CBU.