Why did you choose to study Movement Science as preparation for graduate school?
After spending a year in LSA I realized that I wanted more from my undergraduate career. This was when I began to search for a major that would compliment my prerequisite courses for dental school, while providing me with an opportunity to learn more about the human body and how it works. Soon, I discovered Kinesiology and the Movement Science concentration. The required courses for the Movement Science degree focuses on human anatomy, motor control, biomechanics and exercise physiology. These classes aided in my understanding of how prerequisite courses such as chemistry and biology correlates with the underlying principles of medicine. Furthermore, the classes offered through the Movement Science concentration will prepare me not only academically for a career in health care, they will make me a more competitive and well rounded applicant for health related professional programs such as medical and dental school.

What are your future career plans?
After obtaining an undergraduate degree in Movement Science, with a minor in Urban and Community Studies, I plan to attend a 5 year dual degree program where I will respectively earn a DMD, MD degree. I aspire to someday establish my own practice that will incorporate both the practices of oral and general health care.

What opportunities have you taken advantage of outside of Kinesiology to prepare you for graduate school?
This summer I will be participating in two unique and interesting programs that will undoubtedly assist me in my preparation for a health care career; these programs being the Summer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP) and Medical Educational Service Opportunities (MESO). SMDEP is a FREE (full tuition, housing, and meals) six-week summer academic enrichment program that offers freshman and sophomore college students intensive and personalized medical and dental school preparation. Through this program, I will be given the opportunity to work closely and learn from a wide array of physicians, dentists and professors in the health care field. Through MESO, I will have the opportunity to travel to Nicaragua and provide free health care to underserved native communities. The program allows students to be completely interactive with their patients and acquire in depth clinical skills, which are essential for students wishing to pursue a career in health care.

How would you describe the culture in Kinesiology?
I would describe the culture in Kinesiology as warm, motivational and inspiring. Since Kinesiology is one of the smaller schools at U-M, students enrolled in the program are more appreciative and respectful of their peers. In my experience as a student once enrolled in a larger college at the U-M, I’ve noticed that Kinesiology faculty tend to reach out significantly more to their students and provide them with opportunities and resources that are tremendously helpful in a student’s undergraduate career.

I absolutely love being a part of this wonderful and motivating atmosphere of caring individuals and I am absolutely sure that my undergraduate experience would not have been as unique and fulfilling without the wonderful connections and opportunities I have obtained through the School of Kinesiology.