Erica Borresen
- North Mankato, Minn.
- Bachelor of science in kinesiology, with a human performance emphasis
- What's next: To find employment in research or health prevention, with long-term plans to pursue a doctorate in a health-related field
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UW-Eau Claire photo by Rick Mickelson |
Erica Borresen could say her proudest UW-Eau Claire accomplishments are the awards she has received, the honor societies she has joined, or the presentations she has given. Instead, she views her accomplish-ments in a broader perspective.
"I have done exactly what I intended to do in my undergraduate experience," she said, noting that she viewed her years at UW-Eau Claire "as a time for me to find my potential and use the opportunities this university provides.”
Borresen graduates with a comprehensive major in kinesiology with an emphasis in human performance while having amassed an impressive list of additional achievements.
As a junior, Borresen was awarded the George T. and Clayton T. Piercy Memorial Scholarship. The $4,750 scholarship is given to one student per year who is nominated by faculty members for outstanding academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, intellectual pursuits, and contributions to campus life and the social good.
"It was definitely an honor to be nominated and chosen out of the best students at UW-Eau Claire," she said of receiving the prestigious scholarship.
Borresen also spent time, through the university's Honors Program, taking classes outside her major that allowed her to expand her knowledge in other areas that interest her. Based on a research paper she wrote for one of those classes, a women's studies course, Borresen was selected for the Helen X. Sampson Award.
Beginning her sophomore year, Borreson had the opportunity to participate in student-faculty collaborative research projects focused on energy expenditure in pre- and post-menopausal women. The research experiences offered opportunities to present findings at regional and national conferences and to submit abstracts and peer-reviewed papers to various journals.
Rounding out Borresen's undergraduate experience were a study-abroad experience last summer in Costa Rica, serving as a peer health educator for the Student Wellness Advocacy Team (the SWATeam), being a student assistant for the Community Fitness Program and working as a supervisor at the University Service Center. She also has participated in several student organizations, including the Kinesiology Club, University Activities Commission, Cabin Committee, Alpha Lambda Delta and the Golden Key Honor Society.
More on Erica Borresen
Future plans: After an amazing four years at UW-Eau Claire, I have decided to take a break from school and gain some professional experience. For my immediate plans, I would like to find a job, specifically in research or health prevention, and see where that takes me. I have a passion to help people improve their health through lifestyle changes such as exercise, nutrition, stress management, etc. Due to the current health care crisis, prevention is crucial, and I want to be a part of that mindset and solution.
Long term, I would like to obtain a Ph.D. in a health-related field because I would love to work as a professor in a university setting. I’ve had great experiences with my professors and they have shown me the importance of education, and I want to pass that along as well.
What she liked most about her time at UW-Eau Claire: Receiving a well-rounded education was what I liked most about my UW-Eau Claire experience. I have other interests that do not necessarily focus on my kinesiology education, and I had the opportunity to take other courses to expand my knowledge. Being involved in the university Honors Program wasn’t something I had planned on, however the unique and interesting courses it offered allowed me to learn about areas I would have not been taught within my main courses. We may come here to obtain a degree to get us that “dream job,” but we are also able to receive a well-rounded education — it’s just up to the individual to put in the effort.
Highlights of life at UW-Eau Claire: One main highlight from my life at UW-Eau Claire was studying abroad in Costa Rica last summer. I received many opportunities to tour and work in hospitals, clinics and other health care settings in this developing country. It was an eye-opening experience to learn how this small country organizes its health care system and is able to have universal health care. Not only did I learn a lot, but I also was able to see a beautiful country and discover a colorful culture. Studying abroad made me realize my desire to travel, and I want to incorporate that into my lifestyle. I definitely view traveling as the best way to explore, which will lead to learning and understanding.
Proudest college accomplishments: Reflecting back on my freshman year, I had no idea what I wanted to do or what my passion in life consisted of. Four years and heaps of hard work and long days later, I find myself prepared for my next step in life. It’s possible to go through college with passing grades and attending some classes; however, I viewed my experience at UW-Eau Claire as a time to find my potential and use the opportunities this university provides through student groups and organizations, research opportunities, study abroad programs, unique courses, wonderful professors, and an active and friendly student body. I have developed great skills and made wonderful relationships with faculty and students alike that are invaluable to me.These are what I consider my proudest accomplishments.
Advice for incoming students: My advice for incoming freshman is to remain open minded. It may seem stressful to figure out a major and decide what career path to take; however, I have learned that things will fall into place in the end. Another thing to keep in mind is don’t be afraid to take risks. Being adventurous by pursuing a new interest through classes or organizations will be tremendously beneficial and help you realize your true potential.
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