Gretchen Ruschman Research Ambassador of the Year 2021-22
Q. What does this award mean to you?
A. "Receiving this award was an incredible moment for me. I am almost incapable of finding the right words to convey my appreciation to the Office of Undergraduate Research. Receiving this award is a great encouragement to continue to promote undergraduate research and creative scholarship whole heartedly at UK."
Q. How has your experience as a Research Ambassador impacted you?
A. "Being a Research Ambassador has been a deeply rewarding opportunity both on a professional and personal level. Before being an Ambassador, I always struggled with public speaking. Working with OUR to promote undergraduate research pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to gain a variety of transferable skills. Additionally, I have made lifelong friends working as an OUR ambassador and truly treasure the community and environment OUR promotes."
Q. What was the most significant or memorable moment you experienced as a Research Ambassador?
A. I have loved engaging in mentorship with students pursing research opportunity through OUR. There is no better feeling in the world than to watch someone you helped as an OUR ambassador succeed within the research community at UK.
Q. Name the top two or three lessons you learned from your experience.
A. "One of the most valuable lessons I have learned in my time as an ambassador is that do not be afraid to go out of your comfort zone in research! UK offers so many different research opportunities and the sky is the limit. Don’t be afraid to try something new or explore an interest that is outside of your major!"
Q. Why is undergraduate research important to the University of Kentucky?
A. "Undergraduate research provides an opportunity for students to engage in passionate, hands on learning while at UK. Research provides students unique opportunities that can enrich the undergraduate experience. Participation in research and creative scholarship can allow students to engage in learning outside the classroom and supports the development of a range of valuable skills."
Q. What advice would you give to future Research Ambassadors?
A. "My advice is to go out of your comfort zone. At first, it may be nerve-wracking to reach out and interact with students interested in engaging in research, but it is important to know that you are not expected to know all of the answers. Helping people find research they are passionate about is the best feeling in the world, so being bold completely worth it in the end!"