Jessica Houlihan College of Ag, Dept. of Dietetics & Human Nutrition

Jessica Houlihan is a Lecturer in the Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition in the College of Agriculture and PA-C in the Department of Pediatrics at the Kentucky Children's Hospital. She is interested in clinical and community-based research, quality improvement research, preventative and primary clinical care, women's health issues, and teaching/precepting students. In the past year, Houlihan has mentored approximately 60 undergraduate seniors that are enrolled in the DHN 474 and 475 Research Theory and Application class. Ms. Houlihan explains, "Being a mentor has helped me to continue to see the value of research and the research process. My goal is to help students feel confident as researchers and have the interest to pursue research endeavors in their future careers." She continues, "I am amazed at the thought process and research curiosity of the students I have worked with over the years. Often students have questions and concerns regarding health disparities that they hope to answer through research."

When looking for an undergraduate research mentee, Houlihan appreciates students with a natural curiosity and critical thinking skills. When asked about the value of undergraduate students engaging in research, she replied "Research activity in undergraduate students builds confidence and strengthens critical thinking skills. It is a great transition process for upper-level students to prepare for careers or graduate education."

Thank you Jessica Houlihan for your continued support and encouragement of undergraduate research. Your dedication makes a profound difference to students at the University of Kentucky!

Jessica Houlihan - College of Ag, Dept. of Dietetics & Human Nutrition