Student Research Spotlight - Priscilla Ayine
Priscilla Ayine won second place in the category, University-Wide Graduate Student Awards in Human Sciences, Social Sciences, Creative Arts and Humanities, during the 2020 Auburn Research: Virtual Student Symposium
Hometown: Bolgatanga, Ghana
Major: Doctorate in Nutrition
College: Human Sciences
Department: Nutrition, Dietetics and Hospitality Management
Class year: 2021
Faculty mentor: Geetha Thangiah
An Analysis of Social Ecological Elements Influence on Childhood Weight Gain in Alabama
What are you researching?
My research is focused on investigating the intricate multifactorial etiology of childhood weight gain. The outcome will facilitate the development of effective intervention and prevention programs.
How could the results benefit individuals, agencies or companies?
Obesity is the inception for several chronic diseases, such as diabetes; heart disease; negative psychological outcomes, such as depression and body image issues; and several other negative health outcomes. Due to the rapid rise in childhood obesity in the past two decades, it is of utmost importance to everyone—researchers, parents and many others—to understand the multilayered causes of obesity to guide in the development of prevention and intervention programs.
Tell us why you enjoy research.
Research gives me the toolset to think differently. It has also improved my independent thinking capabilities as well as molded me into a great team member. Moreover, knowing I am contributing to the body of knowledge that would be useful in preventing obesity in children makes it even more exciting.
What advice would you give to other students considering doing a research project?
Research is meaningful when you are passionate about what you are studying. It is both rewarding and challenging because your investigations may not yield the results you were expecting, therefore, I would advise other students to have an open mind and accept research as a systematic adventure.
Tell us about any hobbies or activities you enjoy.
I enjoy doing home science experiments and creating handmade soaps and candles with my children. I also enjoy cooking and taking long walks.
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