Broadening horizons: An Austin Peay student gains a global outlook through an international research program
By: Brian Dunn September 21, 2023
CLARKSVILLE, Tennessee – As a biology student preparing for a career in physical therapy, Hyeok Kim never imagined spending his summer conducting innovative medical research in Poland. But the Austin Peay State University (APSU) senior recently returned from an incredible seven-week journey across Europe, crediting the experience with expanding his worldview.
Kim was one of six students from the College of STEM at APSU who spent several weeks of their summer in Europe. This opportunity was part of a three-year, $300,000 International Research Experience for Students (IRES) grant from the National Science Foundation. The grant aims to send 18 Austin Peay students to partner universities in the Czech Republic, France and Poland over three years. This follows the previous summer when five students embarked on a similar journey.
For Kim, it was an opportunity to step outside his comfort zone. In the lab, he used special glass fibers to analyze blood and urine samples, seeking to detect signs of rare diseases like Fabry disease.
“We were trying to find a new way to diagnose diseases by looking at how light interacts with the glass fibers and biological liquids,” Kim explained about the techniques, which could offer an alternative to conventional diagnostic methods.
Embracing European experiences: Outside-the-lab adventures
Outside the lab, Kim embraced opportunities to experience Europe, including befriending locals, trying Polish cuisine, and visiting sobering historical sites like the Auschwitz concentration camp.
“It was impactful,” Kim said. “I want to travel more and see Asia.”
Kim’s growth mirrors other APSU students in IRES like Jordan Spencer and Yuriy Holovchak. Under the guidance of APSU and partner university professors, participants gain confidence in navigating foreign labs and cities.
“It changes their perception of the world,” said Dr. Andriy Kovalskiy, an APSU physics professor helping lead participating students. “They become much more independent.”
IRES has demonstrated a lasting impact on past and present students alike. The program fosters global citizenship and shapes career trajectories.
Kim credits IRES with illuminating his path toward physical therapy while instilling a passion for travel.
“I want to go somewhere else and explore,” Kim said. “I haven’t seen much of Asia at all.”
With graduation approaching next spring, Kim is eager to apply these lessons as he pursues graduate school and embarks on his professional journey. He wholeheartedly recommends IRES to other STEM students seeking to push boundaries and expand perspectives.
“It’s a good opportunity to learn your interests,” Kim advised. “Just apply and see if you get the position. It will broaden your perspective.”
This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation International Research for Students (IRES) grant (Project No. NSF OISE-2106457).
News Feed
View All News
The Department of Physics, Engineering and Astronomy has announced two free Public Observatory Nights this fall at the Coleman Tractor APSU Farm Powered by Kubota, with sessions on Oct. 17 and Dec. 19 open to stargazers of all ages.
Read More
The Department of Theatre & Dance, with support from the Center of Excellence for the Creative Arts, will present the musical "Ride the Cyclone" Oct. 22-25 in the Mike and Sara Gotcher Theatre, with Texas-based nonprofit Moxxy Forensic Investigations on-site to share its work identifying the unidentified.
Read More
Humphreys County native Brad Withrow began his journey at Austin Peay State University (APSU) in 1984, balancing coursework, part-time jobs and campus life. Then a car accident left his accounting professor, Dr. Wesley Fortner Jr., paralyzed, and the experience taught Withrow a leadership lesson that guides him to this day.
Read More