Name: Liz Newnam

Title of Program: Neuromechanics with an emphasis in prosthetic limbs

E-mail Address: enewnam@utk.edu

Hometown: Durham, NC

Year: Sophomore

Anticipated Graduation Date: Spring 2012

Description of Program: A study of the brain and physiological processes which can be applied to the field of biomechanics and the newer developments in technologies of prosthetics and orthotics.

Departmental Emphases: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB), Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology (BCMB), Exercise Physiology

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Clare Milner

Plans after graduation (career, graduate/professional school, etc.): After earning my undergraduate degree, I will pursue a Master's degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics. Some of my other goals include becoming a Certified Prosthetist-Orthotist and continuing with research. Hopefully, by this time, there will be a post-graduate degree program to follow, so that I may be able to share my experiences with others.

Other Academic Interests: Organismal Biology, Psychology, Art

Prior Enrollment at Other Colleges or Universities: n/a

Study Abroad: I plan to study abroad the summer of 2009 in San Jose, Costa Rica. I will be enrolled in a Spanish course and a Biology course. However, I do not believe this will be my last experience abroad during my undergraduate career.

Research Experiences or Internships: During my senior year of high school, I sought out a local Prosthetics and Orthotics shop in my hometown-BioTech P&O. I volunteered time and was guided by the company's co-founder and Certified Prosthetist-Orthotist.

Part-time employment; Hobbies; Campus Clubs/Activities: Bath & Body Works; Red Cross volunteer, hiking, kayaking, wapboarding, softball, running, painting, cooking, singing/playing guitar, board games with friends and family; UT Film Committee, Women's Mentoring Network, Clinic Vols (South Knoxville Elementary), STAND-UTK Chapter (anti-genocide).