Shraddha Sudhir Kinesiology Student Profile

Shraddha will graduate in August 2022 with her Master of Science in Exercise Physiology. She obtained her BS in Exercise Science at St. Ambrose University in May of 2021. Shraddha has been a Graduate Assistant for our Dept. this past year and will be attending the University of Illinois-Chicago, working towards her PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences. This will be a fully funded program and she has also been offered a Dean's Research Assistantship! She was also chosen to speak at commencement. Shraddha is from Bangalore, India. 

Tell us about some of the professional opportunities that have presented themselves while you've attended SAU. How will you use those now or in the future?While at Ambrose I have had the opportunity to attend and present my research at multiple conferences like the Midwest ACSM and the Midwest ASB conference. This has not only given me the exposure to the research community, but has also helped me network and allowed me to grow as a professional in the field. These opportunities have helped me grow my interpersonal skills, and helped me become more confident.

What was a defining moment or very memorable experience you had as a student in the Department of Kinesiology?
Being recognized as an honorable mention by the American Kinesiology Association as an undergraduate scholar was my defining moment as a student in the Kinesiology Department. This only helped me realize how much the Kinesiology Department has helped me grow and offered me all the support and resources I needed. 

What drew you initially to our department? Has that motivation changed over the course of the years you've been at SAU? The amazing professors and the helpful department drew me to being a student in this department. Further, the accessibility to professors and their passion for student success also drew me to the Kinesiology Department. Over 5 years and 2 degrees, the SAU Kinesiology Department and particularly Dr. Seneli and Dr. Lund have helped me discover my passion for research and my passion for biomechanics. This has altered and shaped my motivation for pursuing further degrees and research.

What advice might you give to a prospective student considering the Dept. of Kinesiology at SAU?
To prospective students considering Kinesiology at SAU, trust me when I say you can't find a better and more helpful department! Make friends with your professors and talk to them, and they will always be there for you and help you. Never be afraid to reach out to them, the TAs or anyone in this department!

What advice might you give to someone just starting the bulk of their required departmental coursework?
Take a deep breath, and believe in yourself! Yes, the coursework might seem daunting, but if you enjoy it, it will all be worth it! And ask questions! A lot of questions!

How did your affiliation with St. Ambrose help you in your job search or graduate school search?
Ambrose has given me so many opportunities that have helped me grow. All that I learned here from the department and my mentors helped me find a PhD program that I will be starting in the fall. The confidence that I gained while at SAU has helped me become a better person and appreciate the value of education. Without my mentors and peers it would have been impossible to find this opportunity that I will be embarking on in the fall.