Kristin Grogg
“The WVU School of Medicine has provided me with more opportunity and support than I could have imagined, and I will forever be grateful to the faculty, staff and leadership during my time as a student.”
What led you to choose your program/major/degree?
During my master's program I became involved with several clinical projects that allowed me to further explore a career as a researcher. This pushed me to pursue my Ph.D. in Clinical and Translational Science and continue growing as an early career investigator. Being able to bring my skills and background in public health, to collaborate and learn more from clinicians and bench scientists, has broaden my understanding of shared research practices and provided me with valuable skills to contribute to the growing field of translational science.
Why did you choose WVU for your education?
Opportunity. As a West Virginia resident who grew up about an hour away from Morgantown and WVU, I knew this was where I wanted to pursue my education. My career plans have changed significantly since I first set foot on campus in 2009 - all for the best, and I attribute that to the supportive environment of WVU and more specifically, the School of Medicine.
What would you tell prospective students about your experience at WVU and the School of Medicine?
Take advantage of every opportunity you can. The amazingly supportive faculty and advisors share resource after resource with students to provide endless opportunities to explore and grow.
Have you had any particular professors or faculty members who were particularly helpful? If so, how?
During my time at WVU there are countless professors, faculty members, advisors and staff who have supported me. For that I am forever grateful!
What is/was your ideal career path, and how did the WVU School of Medicine help along that journey?
Initially, I came to WVU to pursue a career in physical therapy. During my time as an exercise physiology undergraduate student, I learned more about myself and my interests and allowed me to explore Public Health through my MPH. After working with researchers in the School of Medicine and clinicians at WVU Medicine, I chose to continue my training and education through the CTS Ph.D. program. The collaborative staff across the School of Medicine and other HSC schools and offices are the reason I have found myself at graduation this December.
How did you, or are you, bonding with the people in your program? For example, clubs, organizations, etc.
The students of the CTS program are intensely supportive of one another. Although our research projects and interests vary greatly across disciplines, we find ourselves learning and supporting each other both in and beyond the classroom. We are an additional resource for one another with our different backgrounds and life experiences. This was one of my favorite aspects of my program and has allowed me to learn so much more about other colleagues’ careers and pursuits.
Did you receive any particular honors or awards during your time here?
Part of my dissertation work was published and received the 2022 Michael P. O’Donnell Award from the American Journal of Health Promotion (AJHP).
Anything else you’d like to add about your experience at the WVU School of Medicine?
The WVU School of Medicine has provided me with more opportunity and support than I could have imagined, and I will forever be grateful to the faculty, staff and leadership during my time as a student.