Interview by Jonathan Cullum
How did you become involved in research as an undergraduate student at Auburn?
After meeting with Dr. Aurora Weaver to learn more about audiology graduate programs and what kinds of campus involvement, extracurricular activities, and work experiences set competitive applicants apart, she suggested that I volunteer in her Auditory and Music Perception Lab. I began by reading research manuscripts and contributing my knowledge to various projects, then applied to be an undergraduate research fellow to work more closely with Dr. Weaver on the screening project. I felt connected to this project because it aims to increase access to hearing health care for preschool-age children.
Can you tell us a little about your fellowship project, Gamification Hearing Screenings AGESv.3: A Validation Study? What is your role in the project? What are the aims of the project?
The purpose of my project is to determine the validity and reliability of the Auburn Graded Early Skills (AGES) application, which was developed to mimic the gold standard for screening hearing loss. The app incorporates a “train station” activity designed to keep participants more engaged during screenings. Since Alabama is one of eight states that does not mandate hearing screenings in public schools, the goal is to release the gamified app to make preschool and school-age screenings more accessible and affordable.
My role is to work closely with Dr. Cheryl Seals’ Auburn Computer Human Interaction Lab on gamifying AGESv.3 and with Dr. Weaver on data collection and analysis. Development of AGESv.1 was funded through an intramural grant and led to an ongoing collaboration between labs. My undergraduate fellowship compared screening outcomes from AGESv.2 and the portable audiometer, the current gold standard. Revisions are underway for AGESv.3. Analyses showed an ideal specificity range of 90–100%, with fair sensitivity (43%) in pediatric populations and good sensitivity (86%) in adults. Through gamification, we aim to improve pediatric sensitivity while maintaining high specificity.
What is it like to work with Dr. Weaver on this research?
Working with Dr. Weaver is truly rewarding. Over the past year, I’ve learned not only how to conduct research, but also about methods, statistics, and the audiology field itself. Because of her mentorship, I know far more about audiology as an undergraduate than I ever expected, and my passion for the field has grown.
How did you choose Auburn?
I chose Auburn because it had everything I wanted in a university, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. I love the traditions and school spirit. As I toured schools, Auburn kept drawing me back because it felt like home every time I stepped on campus.
What are your other interests in addition to research?
Outside of school and research, I enjoy leading group fitness classes and the sense of community it brings. I also have a passion for traveling and studied abroad last fall, which was life-changing. Dr. Weaver encouraged my study abroad and worked with me to keep my project moving forward while I immersed myself in Italian culture.
What are your future plans?
I was excited that the results of my project were presented in June at the Educational Audiology Association’s International Conference. After graduating, I plan to pursue a doctorate in audiology and work as a pediatric audiologist.
