Tracy is involved in research designed
to promote health care services in the State of Michigan
How did you get involved in research?
I started digging on the University of Michigan-Flint’s website for
opportunities to get involved. When I ran across the page on UROP I sent out
e-mails for more information and was immediately welcomed by staff and faculty
who then helped me search for an open project that correlated with my
undergraduate studies.
How has participating in research impacted your education?
This research project has brought my attention to the inaccessibility of health
services for disabled persons. Researching on behalf of patients with
disabilities has really opened my eyes to the hardships that these patients face
due to environmental factors. Working on this project has given me a broader
sense of how to help patients in tough circumstances, and the attitude a medical
professional needs to possess in order to make a difference.
What has been the most satisfying aspect of your research experience?
The most satisfying aspect of my research experience is knowing that my time and
effort completing numerous surveys will eventually benefit those in need of
medical help. Not only will this project inform Genesee county citizens of the
inaccessibility to clinics for disabled patients in the medical field, but it
will also help those disabled patients locate clinics that are
handicap-friendly. It is a gratifying experience to be able to help patients
that many times are overlooked and go without treatment.
What are your future plans? How has participating in research helped you in
preparing for those future plans?
My future plans involve entering the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the
University of Michigan-Flint. This field has always sparked my attention; it
will enable me to achieve my long term goals of help patients in need on a daily
basis. This research project has given me the opportunity to get out into the
career field I hope to work in, and make a difference.
What advice would you give to students interested in being involved in
research?
There is lots of diversity to be found in research.
It is not limited to only one or two areas. On top of that, there are some
terrific faculty on campus willing to work with students. But you have to make
the first step if you want to take advantage of the opportunities available.
Contact professors, sign up to UROP, and stay involved.
