Eileen Tocco is currently enrolled in the MS Kinesiology program at UWM with plans to pursue a PhD.
Tell us why you chose to pursue a degree in Kinesiology.
“I came to UWM as a kinesiology major. I have been running since I was 7 years old and always knew I was interested in physical activity and exercise. Taking Ann Swartz‘s physiology of performance class my junior year (this is still my favorite class), and working with Scott Strath and Ann Swartz in the Physical Activity & Health Research Laboratory really solidified my interest in physiology specifically.”
Tell us more about your athletic career.
“I started doing road 5Ks with my dad when I was 7 and it very quickly became something I loved. I competed in track and cross country in middle and high school, and I had enough success to be able to run for UWM. I have been lucky to continue competing at this level into my master’s degree.”
What do you plan to do next?
“I am currently exploring a couple different options because I have not solidified what I would like to do with my degrees in the future. I am interested in both clinical exercise physiology and going on for my PhD and doing research.”
Tell us about your research. What excites you most about it?
“I am currently working on a research project with Scott Strath and other students in the Physical Activity & Health Laboratory. We’re exploring the impact of carbon plated shoes on running economy in both athlete and non-athlete running populations. I am super passionate about studying athletic populations as I am an athlete myself. I find it interesting to learn about things that are applicable to me and my own performances.”