
Biology 152 Project: Community-Based Research
Year during project: Sophomore
Academic majors: Kinesiology-Exercise Science; Certificate in Business
Career goals: Medicine, Public Health
What was the goal of your project?
To complete a literature review detailing the current trends of childhood obesity and utilize the findings to analyze and improve the Children’s Gardening Program at Troy Community Gardens.
Why did you choose a community-based research project?
I wanted to do something that was different than the average project and the opportunity to make a difference in the community was enticing.
Did the project support your career goals?
Definitely! Through this project, I was able to focus on a very important aspect of public health. I feel that my project affected the community on a very immediate level and in a very positive manner.
Would you recommend community-based research to other students?
I would recommend community-based research, as it was a means of experiencing what “real-world” science is all about. The more I worked on this project, the more I was drawn in. I realized what the effects of science are when directly applied to a very deserving community.
What was your favorite part about the experience?
Working with my mentors. Their experience is an invaluable resource for undergraduates and was one of the greatest experiences I have had while at UW.