47 Research Reflection by Hailey Nam

Faculty Mentor: Lindsay Keegan (Internal Medicine, University of Utah)

SPUR has been one of the most rewarding and eye-opening parts of my college experience. Coming into the program, I was not sure what to expect or whether I would be able to keep up. But I quickly realized that learning through research is a different kind of challenge. It requires patience, curiosity, and a willingness to step into the unknown. It pushed me to think more deeply, be comfortable with uncertainty, and take initiative in ways I had not before.

What made this experience especially meaningful was not just the research itself, but the mentorship and sense of community that came with it. Working closely with Dr. Lindsay Keegan who genuinely cared about my learning had a huge impact. I felt supported, challenged, and encouraged to grow both intellectually and personally. At the same time, connecting with other SPUR students made me feel less alone in the process. Being surrounded by peers who were also passionate about research created a collaborative and motivating environment. I learned a lot just from hearing about their projects and perspectives.

SPUR also gave me the space to grow more confident in myself. I began to trust my ideas, ask better questions, and take ownership of my work. Through both successes and setbacks, I learned how to navigate research with more independence and clarity. It also helped me understand what it means to work on problems that matter, especially in the context of public health.

Before SPUR, I knew I wanted to become a doctor. I also knew that I wanted research to be part of my path. This experience helped me see how research and medicine can work together to create long-term change, especially in communities that are often overlooked. It shaped the way I think about impact and made me more committed to working at the intersection of science and care. I left this summer more capable, more focused, and more excited about what comes next.