Student Profile: Nadia Surin
Nadia Surin is an undergraduate summer research intern in the Department of Kinesiology
Nadia Surin is a summer research intern in the University of Massachusetts Integrative Locomotion Lab (UMILL) under the direction of Wouter Hoogkamer, assistant professor in the Department of Kinesiology.
Q: Explain what you are researching and your daily role in the study.
We are researching the levels of influence of flexible running footwear on the metabolic processes of the foot by using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MR). Throughout the study, I helped with participant transitioning from the treadmill to MR, controlled the blood flow restriction cuff, recorded time stamp data, and ensured all equipment was in place and safe for the participant. I also assisted with the writing of the final paper which will be published.
I also helped other researchers in the lab outside of my specific study. That allowed me to be exposed to various methods of collecting research data and experience what it’s like to be a participant.
Q: What made you interested in this research?
How distinguished Wouter Hoogkamer is within the running research community. His passion for the UMILL lab does not go unnoticed and inspires all who are around him to put out quality data on topics they’re passionate about.
MR is also used frequently to diagnose injuries in a hospital setting, therefore seeing it be used to conduct research was super interesting to me. I was fascinated by the campus MR center as it is an incredible resource for students and faculty to use for research.
Q: How have your experiences at UMass helped prepare you for this research?
My course load and the relationships I have created with faculty have prepared me so well. My UMass classes are challenging and require a lot of information to be learned and applied. This internship allowed me to apply what I have learned.
Q: What about this internship are you most excited about?
Being a part of research was what made me most excited about this internship. As a transfer student, I did not know this was a possibility and now I am doing it. To be a part of research is an accomplishment for me as I can apply my comprehensive knowledge to the lab. Being able to be a part of a published paper that benefits athletes and recreational runners in their competitions and personal goals is something I take pride in.
I was also able to build great connections within the program. I met other UMass students who conducted their own research with College of Natural Sciences (CNS) professors. Hearing the other students' projects was fascinating as they were all vastly different. Additionally, I worked with a few amazing students who do not go to UMass but also interned in the UMILL lab. We all worked together on various projects within UMILL and became close friends because of it.
Q: What do you hope to do in the future, either at UMass or after graduating?
In the future, I hope to continue working on Wouter’s research. I want to learn more about metabolic processes/energetics in other joints during all movements like running and rowing. After graduating, I hope to get into physician assistant school and specialize in orthopedic surgery.