Julia Costich Research Faculty Mentor of the Month
August Research Faculty Mentor of the Month
Dr. Julia Costich is the Peter P. Bosomworth professor of Health Services Research and Acting Chair in the Department of Health Management & Policy, College of Public Health. Julia attended Duke University for undergrad before completing her JD, PhD, MPA at the University of Kentucky. Not only does she serve in the College of Public Health, she also teaches at the J. David Rosenberg College of Law at the University of Kentucky.
Dr. Costich has research interests that include health law and policy, particularly as they affect vulnerable populations. Inside her research lab, three students, including one undergraduate, assist her throughout the experience. “They motivate me to work in important areas outside my customary research focus,” said Dr. Costich in regards to her favorite part of being a mentor.
“Dr. Costich has had a major impact on my undergraduate research experience. When I first came to the University of Kentucky, I had no intention of participating in research,” recalled one of her mentees. “I am very happy I changed my mind. I have enjoyed researching an area of public health I have an interest in, and Dr. Costich has been able to provide a wonderful experience for me.” While Dr. Costich did not participate in research while she was an undergraduate student, she still has made an impact on her mentees for their own experiences.
Eagerness, curiosity, and the ability to link research with career goals are three characteristics she is looking for in potential research mentees. Dr. Costich shared this advice for students looking to get involved, “Give it a try--you never know whether it's for you until you have the experience.”
Thank you Dr. Costich for your continued support of undergraduate research at the University of Kentucky. We are pleased to recognize your commitment and dedication as the Research Faculty Mentor of the Month.
Learn more about Dr. Costich: https://cph.uky.edu/directory/julia-costich