It is often times hard for students to specify a career path they want to pursue.

Dr. Keith McShan, assistant professor of kinesiology, explains that is especially the case in the kinesiology field.

“Kinesiology is a very broad space of study,” McShan said. “Students in our department can pursue careers in multiple areas which may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, academia, health and wellness, and sports and recreation management.”

“But sometimes, it is hard for students to narrow down what they want to do.”

In order to help students, get exposed to all the possibilities within the kinesiology field, McShan established the kinesiology career research club .

Student focused, student led

To make this club as beneficial as possible, they have decided to let students decide the direction of the club and its focus.

“We really want this club to be student focused,” said Grace Landewee, junior, incumbent president. “During our first few meetings, we want students to brainstorm topics that they may be interested in researching with us.”

McShan wants to help students feel comfortable with the process of research.

“When I was in college, I remember how scary the topic of research was for me and other students,” McShan said. “I want to help students get past those barriers and show them how important it is.”

Connecting with professionals

The club is also meant to allow these students to professionally network.

“We plan to take trips to conferences, events and different organizations to help our students connect with professionals within different kinesiology fields,” McShan said.

McShan and Landewee hope that these trips can help create career opportunities for these students after they graduate.

To find out more information about how to join or get involved in the kinesiology career research club, reach out to  keithmcshan@missouristate.edu or grace304@live.missouristate.edu.

Learn more about the kinesiology department