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November 6, 2019

As an undergraduate student, Alisa was a student research intern with Dr. Linda Larkey's research team. Read more about her experience below!

 

What did you study at ASU? Which CHPDP faculty did you work most closely with?
A: I attended the ASU College of Health Solutions and earned a Bachelor in Exercise and Wellness in May of 2018. I applied for an internship with Dr. Linda Larkey my sophomore year and worked with her Recovery and Rejuvenation research team for about 3 ½ years. The research focused on breast cancer survivors and I assisted in the field teaching gentle movement classes and assisted with in-lab tasks as well.

What have you been up to since graduating from ASU?
A: My degree required an internship during the last semester and I was “placed” at a dermatology clinic in Mesa. It ended up being a great fit and the doctor there offered me a position as a medical assistant after graduation! Luckily, it is extremely hands-on so not only do I work with patients directly; I’m also familiar with the business side, such as scheduling, charting, billing, and insurance. Being a medical assistant is one of my most challenging jobs so far, and I’ve grown a lot because of it!

What career or education plans do you have for the future?
A: I applied to nursing school and was accepted to the Concurrent Enrollment Program between ASU and Chandler-Gilbert Community College. This program lets me complete an associate degree in nursing while also earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2 ½ years. I’m sure if you ask me this question at the end of nursing school my answer will change, but as of right now I want to focus on cosmetic dermatology or become a surgical nurse. We do skin cancer surgeries at the clinic and assisting the doctor is actually my favorite part of the job!

What do you find most valuable about your undergraduate research experience?
A: The confidence I gained while working on the study has been extremely beneficial. The participants I taught were all older than me so at first it was intimidating, but eventually it became second-hand nature, and even fun. I was able to connect with them on a personal level and I’m truly appreciative of the time I was able to spend with my research participants.

What advice would you give other ASU undergraduates interested in research?
A: Go for it! You’ll gain so much knowledge about the research process, and even if you don’t continue in research, the skills you’ll learn are universal. For instance, I was introduced to Excel and the beauty of scientific search engines through the study. I now use Excel to organize my life at the derm clinic, and having the ability to find credible resources will come in handy during nursing school. Most importantly, I found my confidence through the research study which has, and will continue to help me in all aspects of my life.