Carmen Swain ’97 MA, ’07 PhD is a senior lecturer who’s dedicated her career to mentoring Ohio State students. One of her main tools is guiding them through the research process.
This past year, Swain mentored Anthony Dujmovic ’22, an exercise science student, through a rigorous research study.
Swain and Dujmovic completed a study to validate a fitness system developed by an Ohio State alumna for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Peggy Mills ’80, ’93 MA developed the Valemee system to combat growing health issues related to a lack of exercise opportunities for adults with IDD.
The CDC identifies adults with IDD as a target community to promote physical activity because this population has some of the highest rates of obesity, diabetes and chronic heart disease.
Swain and Dujmovic’s VALID study showed the Valemee system increases fitness, independence and self-efficacy. The results are helping Mills expand her business throughout gyms in Central Ohio.
Dujmovic’s work on the study, and mentorship from Swain, helped him gain acceptance to Ohio State’s prestigious doctorate of physical therapy program. He hopes to become a clinical physical therapist.
“I’ve come to expect so much from myself and a lot of that is because of Carmen. Because of her, I felt like I had a place here. I found comfort in myself being under her wing."
Swain’s past mentees have gone on to incredible careers, such as working in the NBA, the New York City social work system and even starting their own businesses.
“The value of mentorship is showing students a path. Dissolving time for them by showing them your successes and mistakes. After doing this, imagine what Anthony can do next.”