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| NIA Intramural Research Program Summer Program |
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| Success Stories -- Shawn Rose |
| Courtesy of the Success Stories Archive NIH Research & Training Opportunities |
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Summer Internship Program in Biomedical Research Fellow - 1999 National Institute on Aging in Baltimore, Maryland Senior Psychobiology Major, University of Miami Hometown: Pembroke Pines, Florida |
| "This summer I was awarded an Intramural Research Training Award (IRTA) stipend at the National Institute on Aging in Baltimore, Maryland. Currently, I am relating personality traits and measures of body dissatisfaction to weight fluctuation in adults. The studied population has been drawn from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study on Aging (BLSA), a comprehensive study that originated several decades ago. We have attempted to create an index that explains upper and lower body dissatisfaction in men and women and how this relates to yo-yo dieting and weight fluctuation throughout the life span. My primary mentor, Dr. Reubin Andres [M.D.] is a medical doctor with a strong background in obesity and diabetes research. Additionally, the personality variables analyzed in the study are a culmination of the personality scale developed by Dr. Paul Costa [Ph.D.] a psychologist with whom I have worked closely. I am interested in both the physiological and psychological factors (hence my psychobiology major) of health, and this study incorporates both. |
| My typical workday begins with a little e-mail in the morning followed by statistical analyses. After breaking for lunch, I often meet with my mentor and discuss the results of the analyses. Next, it is back to the drawing board and a whole new series of analyses to run. I would not say that my research interests have changed as a result of working at the NIH. I am still very interested in the neuroscience field. Yet, my interests have expanded. Prior to my internship, I had little interest or knowledge on the subject of obesity and aging. Currently, however, I can visualize the widespread effects of an aging, obese population in the future. This will be a topic of great importance as I pursue a degree in geriatric medicine. Ultimately, I would like to publish my work and return for an internship next summer to 'iron out' some of the findings and pursue new areas of interest. |
| I plan to pursue a M.D. specializing in geriatrics and internal medicine, followed by a Ph.D. in neuroscience. The first half of my future plans have already been realized, as I have been accepted to the University of Miami School of Medicine for the Fall 1999 semester. After obtaining my Ph.D., I may delve into the field of neurodegenerative disorders, researching diseases like Alzheimer and Parkinson's. I would also like to teach at the university or medical school level some day. |
| My future plans include returning to the NIH next summer. Furthermore, I would love to do a fellowship here at the NIH following the attainment of my medical and doctorate degrees. I also would like to pursue a career at the NIH in order to work with some of the most intelligent scientists in the world. |
| My mentor is Dr. Reubin Andres. He has definitely assisted in making my experience at the NIA a positive one. First, he has helped me to begin the process of formulating and answering scientific questions. Dr. Andres also has been there every step of the way with helpful suggestions on my paper and poster presentation, as well as offering prudent advice concerning my future career as a medical doctor and scientist. It always amazes me how he can simplify the most obscure concept and make it presentable in layman's terms. |
| The tremendous resources and brilliant scientists at the NIH have been impressive. The fact that scientists come here from all over the globe to collaborate on research, despite cultural - and sometimes language - barriers, is equally impressive. |
| I obtained housing through the Human Resources personnel at the National Institute on Aging in Baltimore. I would suggest using their resources if you want to be surrounded by other students. However, if you want cheap rent in a nicer area, then arrive here a little early and find your own accommodations. Another alternative is to use the Internet. You will meet other students at work regardless of your housing situation, so try and live somewhere that is convenient and comfortable. I am fortunate that my roommate has a car. In Baltimore, the train and bus systems are not very convenient. Without a car, you may spend a lot of time on a bus in order to arrive at work on time. If you have a car, bring it to Baltimore because D.C. is under an hour away. |
| Summer fun consisted mostly of parties at our place, travel throughout various cities in the northeast, such as New York, Boston and D.C., and even exploring nature across Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. From running through cornfields and climbing mountains to clubbing in Baltimore and D.C., - you name it, we did it. Living near Washington is a great opportunity to check out the local dance clubs and the Smithsonian museums. Finally, sports, weightlifting and recreational activities like bowling and billiards kept us busy. And the food ... delicious! Baltimore has tons of great restaurants. Check out those bay crabs!" |
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