Meredith is a fourth year doctoral candidate studying Psychosocial Aspects of Sport and Physical Activity. She earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Truman State University where she competed as a collegiate swimmer. She received her master’s degree in Kinesiology from Georgia Southern University with a concentration in Sport and Exercise Psychology. Meredith instructs undergraduate courses within the Kinesiology Department, serves on several committees, and provides applied sport psychology consulting services within MSU athletics.
What brought you to the ISYS?
I was originally drawn to the Institute because of my interests in youth sport and coaching. I wanted to join and contribute to a laboratory group that aligned with my values and interests aimed to improve youth sport. After meeting one of the ISYS faculty members at a conference, I knew Michigan State and the Institute would be a great fit for me.
What are some highlights of your time in the ISYS?
My favorite part about being in the ISYS is the community we have created. Everyone is extremely supportive of your growth as a person and a scholar. As a lab group we get together for back-to-school gatherings and holiday parties. In addition, traveling to conferences has been a highlight because it is fun to explore new places and learn about recent research being conducted within the field of sport and exercise psychology. At one of our most recent conferences in Fort Worth, Texas we saw a dueling piano show!
I know I can walk down the hall and knock on someone’s door if I ever have questions, need advice, or want to take a break from work.
What are your research interests?
As a former youth swim coach, I became interested in how coaches can influence athletes’ experiences in sport. My research focuses on positive youth development through sport with emphasis on the coach’s role in fostering environments conducive to holistic athlete development. My dissertation utilizes latent variable modeling to provide reliability and validity evidence for a newly developed psychological measurement instrument in youth sport coaching.
Is there anything else you’d like us to know about your time at the ISYS, your work today, or for future students?
The Institute has a rich history and tradition that dates back over 40 years! There have been so many excellent alumni who have made significant contributions to the field. I recommend that future students learn about the history of the ISYS, connect with alumni, and get involved in research and applied projects to maximize their involvement. Take advantage of the opportunities to learn from faculty and more senior students. Your experience in the ISYS is truly what you make of it!
Fun fact about yourself
During the 3rd year of my program, I joined MSU’s Club Triathlon Team. Triathlon has opened up several exciting opportunities for me. I was recently invited to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Center in Colorado Springs where I was a guide for visually impaired athletes being recruited to compete in the Paris 2024 and Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.