What happens to School of Kinesiology students after they leave Cooke Hall? DJ McDonough, a recent PhD graduate, advised by Zan Gao, PhD, published his dissertation study in early September. We spoke to McDonough to hear how the School of Kinesiology has helped shape his trajectory.
How has the School of Kinesiology helped get you to where you are now?
As a first-generation college student, I went through most of my college career with little-to-no idea of what I was doing; it’s been a big game of trial and error for me. When I started my PhD program I immediately felt as though I had a support system. Right away, I was provided with the resources necessary for becoming a better student and a better researcher. Everyone in the School of Kinesiology was so helpful and caring. With that environment, I no longer had to waste time figuring everything out. I was finally able to put all my focus and efforts into my classes and research, which is a big reason I am where I am now.
“I was finally able to put all my focus and efforts into my classes and research, which is a big reason I am where I am now.”
How has the School of Kinesiology supported you in your professional and personal goals?
It offered many opportunities for me to engage in research, practice presenting my research, and even provided some internal funding for me to engage in my own research. All of this support helped me achieve one of my main goals, which was securing the Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship during the final year of my PhD program. The School of Kinesiology also helped me achieve my early career goal of securing the postdoctoral fellowship appointment I recently accepted—an NIH-NHLBI T32 postdoctoral fellowship in Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology and Prevention within the U of M’s School of Public Health.
What motivates your research and interest in kinesiology?
I come from a low-income community that had few opportunities to engage in physical activity. Knowing what I know now—that many health issues in these communities and throughout our country stem from inequity—motivates me to keep learning and keep investigating ways to promote physical activity. I want to research how to optimize our health (and minimize disease risk) through physical activity, exercise, and nutrition.
“Knowing what I know now—that many health issues in these communities and throughout our country stem from inequity—motivates me to keep learning and keep investigating ways to promote physical activity.”
What advice would you give to those wanting to pursue a degree in Kinesiology?
Ask questions (LOTS of questions). If you feel like there’s something you wish you could have access to (e.g., funding opportunities, software, etc.) you may be surprised that often, the School of Kinesiology can help grant you access. Put yourself out there and do things that make you uncomfortable; they suck, but much of your personal growth will come from doing them. When times seem tough or you feel overwhelmed (this might happen a lot), remember that you’re lucky to have the opportunity to attend college. Try to remember why you started your college journey in the first place. Remember to try and live a balanced life—there’s more to college than just class and research. Try to make friends and have fun! It may seem counterintuitive, but you’ll be more productive in the long run. Lastly, remember that Kinesiology is an amazing field of study, and if you put in the work, you can do what you’re passionate about for a living!
“When times seem tough or you feel overwhelmed (this might happen a lot), remember that you’re lucky to have the opportunity to attend college. Try to remember why you started your college journey in the first place.”
