PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (February 7, 2022) “The Research and Innovation Success and Excellence (RISE) -Graduate Research experience offered me incredible mentorship and professional development.,” says Lerah Lockett. The Houston native completed a Bachelor of Science degree in health through the College of Education. She is now a student in Prairie View A&M University’s Post-Baccalaureate Program in preparation for medical school.
With her career path clearly in focus, Lockett plans to become a primary care physician. She maintains that the experiences and skills she acquired through RISE will help her become a better physician, educator, and advocate for future patients.
Lerah Lockett | Graduate RISE Student Spotlight
Lockett says, “The RISE-Graduate Research experience has enhanced my education and development immensely. By reading numerous research papers and analyzing data, I have become a better data analyst and critical thinker.” The Faculty RISE-Graduate Research grant program supports faculty-mentored graduate students’ research and innovation activities. The program enables faculty researchers to expand and sustain their research through external grants and contracts while training graduate students to become the next generation of experts.
Graduate students are selected for participation in the RISE program by faculty researchers, who take on the role of mentors. Students are required to have meaningful participation in the mentor’s research project. Camille Burnett, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, served as a mentor for Lockett.
“My mentor demonstrated to me what becoming a true professional means. My leadership skills, verbal and written communication skills, confidence, and resilience have all increased as I have worked closely with her.,” said Lockett. “Dr. Burnett taught me in a brief period of time things that would have taken me years to learn. Her encouragement and excellent advice will always remain with me. I am a better person and will be a much better professional because of her.”
Lockett encourages other graduate students to get involved with research. “If given the wonderful opportunity to participate in the RISE-Graduate Research program, I would encourage other students to take full advantage and immerse themselves in all the program has to offer. This program offers so much wonderful mentoring, guidance, and excellent advice. Soak it all in; RISE will be a great chance to learn and grow as a student, person, and future professional.”
“Leaving this program, I feel equipped to be a more confident, persistent, and resilient person and professional. I know these core traits will help me in all areas of my life.,” says Lockett.
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Karen B. Cotton