Ph.D. in Nursing - Alumna

Why did you choose graduate school at IUPUI?

IUSON provides the state’s only PhD in Nursing program, and is a leader for innovation and academic support. I was intrigued by the strong focus on mentorship and unparalleled support provided from the faculty. The school’s commitment to developing and preparing future nurse scientists provides for a strong foundation for research and leadership, and supports my personal values of continual learning through mentorship. The school has connection to national nursing leaders and researchers, and provides opportunities for excellence in nursing education which I feel blessed to be a part of.

What has been your favorite academic accomplishment since you’ve been here?

I am honored to say that I am one of only 46 students nationally to have received the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Future of Nursing Scholars fellowship for 2015-2018. This fellowship has provided me with so many opportunities for additional growth and development while working on my PhD, and has presented me with a national network of future nurse scientists and leaders within the discipline of nursing. In the spring of 2016, I was also selected to receive one of IUPUI’s Elite 50 award. This was one of my favorite academic accomplishments as this award is only given to the top 0.5% of IUPUI’s graduate students.

What do you enjoy most about life in Indianapolis?

I actually live in Shelbyville, IN, which is about 30 minutes southeast of Indianapolis. I love being able to come to the city for events such as the Indiana State Fair, the Mini-Marathon, or various weekend and evening entertainment. The city is so beautiful and I love being able to walk down the canal or spend time on Mass Ave. Indianapolis has one of the best convention centers, which offers so many fun events to relax and refuel, as well as support professional development and continuing education!

Please provide some details about your work/research as a graduate student and/or any activities you are involved in.

I have participated in research as a graduate student through opportunities provided by my mentor, Dr. Carol Shieh. Dr. Shieh has provided me an invaluable first-hand look into conducting research, and I have been able to support her work related to gestational weight gain and health outcomes. I was able to present a poster at the 2016 IUPUI Research Day titled “Maternal Gestational Weight Gain: Perceptions of Overweight and Obese Pregnant Women.” Many of the additional activities I’m involved in relate to my passion for maternal child health and my job as a Nurse Supervisor for Nurse-Family Partnership @ Goodwill in Marion County. I am also involved in the Jr. League of Indianapolis and the Healthy Shelby County coalition and leadership group, both of which have provided me opportunities to give back through community service.