As her time in the faculty continued, Gooch was encouraged by faculty and students to get embrace new opportunities. It was a choice that ultimately saw more career possibilities open up to her. As an Undergraduate Research Award recipient Gooch dove into qualitative research and found a greater appreciation for the perspectives of both the client and patient.
“Participating in undergraduate research really changed how I saw my future career,” says Gooch.
She says the URAs gave her clarity on what she wants for her future. This fall, Gooch will be starting her Master’s of Physical Therapy, where she is excited to soak up as much new information as she can. A “life-long learner,” she hopes the hands-on experience will help inform future research questions.