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.