Student Experience: Department of Kinesiology

At Huntington University, we strive to nurture each student's calling into a successful career. If you have a passion for health, nutrition, and exercise, HU’s Department of Kinesiology is the perfect place for you! A common misconception about this field of study is that working in or being interested in nutrition and exercise is only for “fitness buffs” or athletes. Thankfully, senior Kalaina Stephens shed light on the Department of Kinesiology and why it has inspired her to aid others in the pursuit of wellness.

1. Why did you choose to become an exercise science and nutrition major?

“I chose to be an Exercise Science and Nutrition major because I have always been fascinated with the human body and its ability to endure different types of movement. I have also been interested in learning about optimal ways to fuel my body to function, perform, and feel my best as a female student-athlete, which is how I became passionate about nutrition.”

2. Where do you see yourself in the future after you earn your degree? 

“After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school to earn a master's degree in nutrition and dietetics to eventually become a Registered Dietitian.”

3. How has the HU Department of Kinesiology prepared you to pursue your goals? 

“The Department has been very helpful with assisting me to pursue my goals. Professor [Josh] Watson does an amazing job in making sure that all the Exercise Science majors are keeping up with the content. He is also always available to answer any questions or concerns I may have and teaches me to apply the Christian faith in the health science field. Dr. [Fred] Miller does a great job of providing me with the research side of Exercise Science and being flexible with my schedule, as I have balanced school and soccer the past few years.”

4. What is your favorite memory from your experience in this major?

“My favorite memory being in this major would be my internship that I was able to experience at the Parkview Sport One Fieldhouse in Fort Wayne. I was given the opportunity to shadow their Sports Dietitian, Sami Kauffman, for six months, and this confirmed my decision to pursue a career in the sport-specific field.”

5. What is one thing you wish people knew about the Department of Kinesiology or your major in general?

“I wish people knew that this department has a variety of knowledge to offer to everyone. People can think of Exercise Science and Nutrition as just for the people that are ‘healthy,’ but we are all on our own journeys toward achieving wellness, and this can look different for each person. Exercise and nutrition are both things that are constantly evolving, and I think it's important to let people know that even with just the basic foundational knowledge of this major, you can make lifestyle changes that will be beneficial for your physical, mental, social, and emotional health.”

At HU, we want physical, mental, social, and emotional health for each Forester. If creating positive change in the lives of others, especially in regard to their physical health, excites you, a major in exercise science and nutrition might be for you! For more information, check out the Department of Kinesiology’s exercise science and nutrition program to learn more about the department’s commitment to prepare students to be world changers in the fields of exercise and nutrition.