• Hometown: Ames, IA
• Faculty mentor/advisor(s): Emily Wentzell, Associate Professor, Anthropology; Jeanine Abrons, Clinical Assistant Professor, Pharmacy
• What is your degree program and expected graduate date? Global Health Studies (BS) and Economics (BA), May 2020
• Please describe your research: I worked with Vivekananda Memorial Hospital in Saragur, India to develop a survey to examine the use, attitudes, and motivations of self-medication among individuals living in rural villages surrounding the hospital.  The survey collected basic demographic features and trends of self-medication among villagers.
• In simple terms, why does this research matter? India experienced rapid growth in their pharmaceutical industry and now is one of the top producers of generic medications in the world.  Most medications are available over the counter and the survey was used to assess how frequently individuals purchased medications without prior consultation of a doctor as well as medications commonly used and primary motivations for self-medicating.  This assessment is important to ensure that patients are practicing safe self-medication.
• How soon after starting at the University of Iowa were you able to participate in research? I began doing research during my fourth year at the University of Iowa.
• How has being involved in research made you more successful at the University of Iowa? Being involved in research allowed me to put many of the skills I acquired in the classroom to use in a real-life setting.  I am also very grateful to have gotten chance to work in India and I learned immensely about how to be flexible and adapt to new situations while carrying out projects internationally.
• What are your career goals and/or plans after graduation? After graduation I plan to spend a year in Spain and then attend law school.

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