CHS Undergrad Using Research to Improve Health of Those in Commonwealth
By Ryan Clark
CHS Communications Director
Carey Beth Smith came to the University of Kentucky because she wanted to fulfill a goal of helping to improve the health of the people of the Commonwealth.
And that sounded like a perfect fit for the College of Health Sciences, which is why the 21-year-old from London, Ky., decided on the Human Health Sciences major — specifically the pre-med track.
What followed were years of research, participation in various organizations on campus, and growing as a person and leader. She will graduate in spring 2025, but just a few months ago, Smith was honored to present her research at the Posters-at-the-Capitol event in Frankfort.
We caught up with Smith after she just celebrated turning 21 this week. We talk goals, research and her advice to prospective students …
Here’s 5 questions with HHS’ Carey Beth Smith …
1. Why did you choose Kentucky and pre-med?
I came to the University of Kentucky because I knew I would leave prepared for my career. The opportunities at UK have allowed me to grow as a student and person.
I decided to go the pre-med route to fulfill my goal and passion for improving the health of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. As a physician, I will be a leader in my community. The College of Health Sciences has prepared me for this role. My major has educated me in all of the aspects of being in healthcare. I will be a better physician because of what I have learned here.
2. Why did you want to participate in undergrad research — and why is it important for students?
I was led to participate in undergraduate research out of curiosity of the opportunities. I had always heard about research but never knew exactly what it entailed. This led me to find the SPARK Program (Students Participating as Ambassadors for Research in Kentucky). In the program, I conducted a health equity research project. I, along with ample help from my research team, took part in every aspect of conducting a research project. I now have a more developed understanding of what it means to participate in research.
Research is important for CHS students because it provides a hands-on experience to supplement the content from their coursework. Research experience provides a more holistic experience for a student. It also boosts a students’ resume when applying for graduate and professional schools. Research has been an enriching experience that has allowed me to grow as a student and will make me a better physician.
3. What was your project and how did it feel getting to present at the Capitol?
My research topic was entitled, “Exploring Perceptions of Lung Cancer Prevention in Appalachia.”
This was with the help of the SPARK Program. The program allowed students from disadvantaged/underrepresented backgrounds to participate in health equity research. This program and its values were immediately attractive because I am from Appalachia and have an interest in community health within the area. The opportunity to serve and advocate for my community was invaluable.
I presented at the Posters-at-the-Capitol event in Frankfort, Kentucky. I presented a poster reflecting my project, “Exploring Perceptions of Lung Cancer Prevention in Appalachia.” This experience allowed me to meet with lawmakers, government officials and other undergraduate students and advocate for Appalachia. Leading up to the event, I was quite nervous; however, I realized that I had talked about this project for the past year. And that one hour would be natural after all of my practice.
4. What else have you participated in at UK and what does the future look like for you?
I place a high value on all of the opportunities at the University of Kentucky. I take part in Greek Life, DanceBlue, the Christian Student Fellowship. I have had leadership positions within these organizations. I am also a lifelong UK basketball fan! These organizations and opportunities have given me a community of like-minded students to support and motivate me throughout my rigorous course work.
I am also currently in the process of applying to medical school. I am passionate about improving the health of Kentuckians! I feel that I can best serve my community and state as a physician. I see this career as a leadership role. It is a tall task, but I am excited for the challenges and exciting times ahead.
5. What advice would you give to students who want to go down the same road?
My advice to future students would be for them to stay diligent and rely on your support system throughout all the challenges. Some of my proudest moments from college are knowing that I did not give up when many probably would have. An essential part of staying diligent and relying on your support system is utilizing the opportunities available to you. The shadowing and volunteer work through the College of Health Science have affirmed my desire to go into healthcare.