Major/Department: MS in Nutrition
Current Occupation: Registered Dietitian
I believe that it is extremely beneficial to choose a research topic that is of personal interest to the researcher. Being invested in a topic not only makes the research process more enjoyable, but it also fosters a result that is more meaningful because the work was completed with genuine curiosity and purpose.
Project Sponsors:
Jessica Bodzio
Mentors:
Jessica Bodzio, Maureen Dunne-Touhey, Lee Harrison
My Research Project Experience:
Describe the undergraduate research/creative experience that you had while at Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
Initially, the thought of completing such a large, in-depth project was very daunting; however, during my research experience at Â鶹ÊÓƵ, I was consistently supported and guided by my thesis chair and committee. Additionally, the administration at the facility in which I was completing my research was very open to the idea of my project and interested in seeing the results.
What do you think was the most important thing you learned while doing research?
Mainly, I learned to be more flexible. Originally, I had a specific idea of what I wanted to explore in my research and how I wanted the end result to look. However, the topic and goal of my research had to be modified multiple times in order to ensure the best subject matter and to yield useful results. It was difficult to see my vision shift in focus; however, these changes led to a more substantial research project.
What advice do you have for undergraduates who might be interested in doing research or creative scholarship?
I believe that it is extremely beneficial to choose a research topic that is of personal interest to the researcher. Being invested in a topic not only makes the research process more enjoyable, but it also fosters a result that is more meaningful because the work was completed with genuine curiosity and purpose.
Do you use any of the skills or perspectives gained doing research in your current occupation? How so?
Throughout the course of completing my research, I was often faced with deadlines to meet, revisions to be completed, and various other barriers that required timely and effective resolutions. Therefore, my critical thinking skills, time management skills, and ability to pay attention to detail were thoroughly tested. Currently, I encounter these types of challenges in the workplace on a daily basis, and I am able to successfully navigate them.
Many undergraduate researchers are making decisions about what to do after they graduate from Â鶹ÊÓƵ. Having had that experience, what do you know now that you wish you’d known then? Do you have any advice?
My advice would be to not be afraid to step out of one’s comfort zone and to be open to new things. Experience is invaluable and cannot be found in a textbook.