Getting to Know You: Emma Wilsie
Emma Wilsie – Sport Science Undergraduate Student
Hometown: Tacoma, WA
Minors: Psychology
What appeals to you most in this field?
What I find most appealing about this field is that it is so diverse. There is so much to do with this degree. Not every student is going for the same thing. If you are going to school for civil engineering you are going to be a civil engineer. As a sports science major when I finish my degree I can then move on to a specialized program in PT or OT, or I can pursue a career with just my bachelors, or I can continue my education at a grad program. There is just so much room for continued learning.
Who, or what, influenced your decision to pursue this degree?
I originally applied to WSU to pursue my biology degree and after I switched I changed my future plans from Physical Therapy to academia. I chose sports science because I originally wanted to pursue a career in physical therapy. Because of this, I found my way to research and that became my new career goal.
What is your dream job after college?
After college, I would like to pursue a career in academia and become a research professor at a university. I have spent the last 4 years working in the Exercise Physiology and Performance Lab (EPPL) working on a lot of different research projects. It was this work that made me shift my future plans and want to pursue a career in academia so I can do research of my very own someday.
Do you have any advance for incoming freshmen pursuing this degree?
My advice would be to get involved with the research being done by kinesiology faculty. It is never too early to become involved.
What kind of extracurricular activities are you a part of?
I have been a research assistant in the Exercise Physiology and Performance Lab for the last 4 years and have been the lab’s research coordinator for the last 2 years.
Favorites:
Professor: Christopher Connolly
Sport: Cross Country
Book: The Emperor of Maladies