59 Research Reflection by Kyndll Ussery

Faculty Mentor: Kelly Baron (Family & Preventative Medicine, University of Utah)

Overall, my time researching has taught me the importance of paying close attention to detail while also learning how to see the bigger picture. As a researcher, you often face limitations, and if you’re not careful, it’s easy for vital information to slip between the cracks. My focus improved as a result of this experience, and I was able to complete tasks in a short amount of time. It’s taught me to think more critically and holistically when approaching problems or analyzing data.

Living in Utah also presented a huge opportunity for personal development. Though I was excited to come to Utah, I grew up in the South, so I had to adjust to a completely different environment on a social, cultural, and geographic level. I learned how to embrace change and to make the most of my new environment. It encouraged me to connect with people I may have been unfamiliar with, branch out of my comfort zone, and learn from those encounters. Everything being taken into account, this experience expanded my academic perspective and strengthened my internal courage, and I am appreciative of all that it taught me.