Welcoming First Cohort: Kallan Campa
Image: Kallan Campa (Photo courtesy Kallan Campa)
Kallan Campa is excited to learn more about the complexities of the relationship between behavior and participation in physical activity.
She shares about what inspired her to join the MSK program and what she is looking forward to learn.
1. What is one fun fact about yourself?
I taught myself to recite the alphabet backwards when I was 3 years old.
2. What inspired you to join the MSK program at PLU?
I have had a wonderful experience in my undergrad within the PLU Kinesiology department. During my junior and senior years, I took pedagogy and psychology classes in the kinesiology department and became interested in learning how people learn. I decided that I would start looking at graduate programs to find a good fit for me. I looked into several programs, but ultimately once I got word that PLU was starting the MSK program, my mind was set. Each faculty member upholds high expectations for their undergraduate students, and I can only imagine how those expectations might be heightened in the MSK program! The presence of challenge is important to me, and I knew that I would have that in this program even though I would be in my comfort zone on campus. I have enjoyed the interactions I have had with peers and know that I have so much more to learn from the incredible faculty we have within the department. With those two components and a desire to learn more within the field, I have no reservations about extending my time at PLU – I am proud to be continuing my education here as part of the first MSK cohort!
3. What are you most excited to learn?
During my undergraduate program I took interest in the relationship between behavior and participation in physical activity, especially in youth populations. I am excited to learn more about the complexities of this relationship and learn how I can intervene as a kinesiology professional. That said, I don’t know what I don’t yet know, and I think that’s what is most exciting for me as I begin this program! I know that there will be countless opportunities to engage with and apply content that I learn from this program, and I am excited to jump at them!
4. How would you use this degree in your future career?
Once I complete the MSK program, I plan to teach PE and/or Health, and possibly coach too. By obtaining this degree, I will be better equipped to connect with my students and help them to become more physically competent. Kinesiology covers an array of topics related to people, so with deeper study in a master’s program I will be better able to help my students connect the physical, mental, and emotional components of physical activity.
5. What tips would you share with undergraduate students when considering a graduate program?
When selecting a graduate program, I would recommend researching programs within the field or topic that you are interested in. What are you passionate about learning? Know that what you pursue your master’s degree in does not necessarily have to be related to what you studied in undergrad, but it should definitely be something you are interested in learning more about.
How you learn the content should be another component of the programs you consider. Are these programs research or application based? Think about which excites you more and consider the opportunities that each format presents. What can you gain from those opportunities and how will they help you to become a better professional?