Michael Checkai
- Hartland, Wis.
- B.S. in environmental public health
- What's next: Seeking a full-time position with a public agency, private organization or corporation
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UW-Eau Claire photo by Rick Mickelson |
Michael Checkai spent his final college semester getting his hands dirty.
Checkai, an environmental public health major, worked with several of his professors, a fellow student and an ENPH alumnus on a collaborative research project examining whether land spreading of septic tank effluent generates antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Checkai helped plan the research once the direction of the project was determined, and he tested soil samples in the laboratory. He also participated in presenting the study's results at UW-Eau Claire's Student Research Day. The experience, he said, gave him the unique opportunity to apply in the lab what he was learning in the classroom and to learn the research process and methods.
Checkai found collaborating with his professors and an ENPH alumnus challenging but rewarding.
"Their experience and expertise can be overwhelming, but working alongside them was great," he said. "They treated me as a peer. I'm more confident and feel I'm part of something much bigger."
Checkai, a 2006-07 Environmental Public Health Scholarship recipient, also played a leadership role in UW-Eau Claire's chapter of the Student National Environmental Health Association. With SNEHA, Checkai participated in highway cleanup, Earth Day events and a "Don't Dump It, Donate It" event. Checkai, SNEHA's treasurer, was drawn to join the group because of its commitment to improving the community of Eau Claire and educating people about environmental public health issues and jobs.
"It's a great opportunity for us to demonstrate what we've been studying and educate the public about what jobs people in our field do for them every day," he said.
Before long, Checkai will be doing one of those jobs. He's already proven he's not afraid to get his hands dirty.
More on Michael Checkai
Future plans: To pursue a full-time position with a public agency, a private organization or a corporation where I can apply and utilize my educational skills in a productive and beneficial manner.
What he liked most about his time at UW-Eau Claire: Eau Claire offers a great community to live in on or off campus. There are always activities going on within walking distance. The relationship between the community and the university enhanced my experience here.
Highlights of life at UW-Eau Claire: My internship established through the ENPH program at the Waukesha County Health Department, and how can I ever forget the semester studying abroad at the University of Evansville in Harlaxton, England.
Proudest college accomplishments: Receiving the Environmental Public Health Scholarship last semester. It recognizes my academic achievements and my commitment to public health.
Advice for incoming students: In the great words of the late Douglas Adams, "DON'T PANIC." College is a stepping-stone to where you want to head in life. It is important to take the time to explore and find what career is right for you. Spend some time and utilize the help UW- Eau Claire has to offer.
Learn about other featured May 2007 graduates
