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Washington State University
College of Education

Getting to Know You: Mikayla Wood

Mikayla Wood – Kinesiology Sport-Science and Psychology

Hometown: Ephrata, Washington
Year in School: Junior

Who, or what, influenced your decision to pursue this degree?

I decided to pursue a degree in Kinesiology because of my mom. She had come across something talking about Kinesiology and thought that it might be an interesting and fun degree for me. At the time I was undecided and leaning towards General Biology. When I read into Kinesiology, it sparked an interest. I did not intend to add an additional major but after taking Psychology 105 my first semester at WSU made me fall in love with it. So I decided to be a dual major in Kinesiology Sport-Science and Psychology.

What makes this program special and what do you like most about the department?

The Kinesiology program is so special because everyone is like a family. I feel comfortable talking to my professors if I need to and I can connect easily with my classmates because we are in a lot of the same classes together. The department has a lot of opportunities for us to gain experience and get involved, which I really appreciate.

What is your dream job after college?

After college, I want to be a researcher and possibly be a professor as well. I would want to teach psychology of sport and exercise, or a similar course, while doing research in the same area. I am really interested in researching sport and exercise within the population of those with Down syndrome or other intellectual disabilities, or in researching mental toughness and mental barriers in competitive athletes.

Do you have any advice for incoming freshman pursuing this degree?

Join Kines Club! You are around other students in the same major with similar interests. It is a great way to make friends and get help with classes. One more piece of advice would be to get connected with your professors, they can be great resources.

What kind of extracurricular activities are you a part of?

I am a member of the Kinesiology club core group and I work in the Psychology of Physical Activity lab.

Favorites:

Class: Kines 313: Psychology of Physical Activity
Sport: Softball
Movie: The Harry Potter Series
Celebrity: Jennifer Aniston
Pullman Restaurant: Red Bento
Quote: “You don’t go through life; you grow through life.” -Kevin Ollie