Member since
Student affiliate since 2014
Looking to specialize
Duncan just earned her bachelor of science in psychology with a focus on counseling from Northern Kentucky University. As a mother of three children in Florence, Kentucky, she has decided to be a full-time mom while she researches graduate programs in nutrition science. In the not-too-distant future, she wants to go back to school to learn more about how the foods people eat can improve — or impair — their lives.
"I believe that what we consume plays a vital role in our energy levels, our productivity and how we feel about ourselves," she says.
Her goal is to counsel people in nutrition, especially those seeking treatment for eating disorders.
Drawn to psychology
From a young age, Duncan knew she wanted to have a career in a helping profession, but it wasn't until college that "I realized psychology was the path I needed to take to make that a reality," she says. Her strengths, she says, are listening to others and helping them reach a solution.
Greatest challenge about psychology: Though Duncan loves psychology, she found the research aspect of her training to be frustrating. "I discovered that you often don't get the anticipated outcome in your research. It usually takes more than one attempt, revisions to the measures and many other influencing factors. So I've learned that in order to be a good research scientist, it takes a lot of critical thinking and patience."
Mom on a mission
For now, her priority is her family. "My husband and my three boys inspire me to be the person I aim to be," she says. "I want my boys to grow up knowing that they can accomplish anything if they truly believe they can do it. I want to be that example for them."
Being a strong and successful mother also requires her to take care of herself. That means getting up early to work out or read and drink coffee before her family wakes. She admits it's not always easy to put herself first. "I still have to take a step back and remind myself that I don't have to be everything to everyone," she says.
Her favorite mode of stress relief is Crossfit, a strength and conditioning program and competitive fitness sport. "The sense of community and support that it inspires is akin to therapy," she says. "All of the members complete the same challenging workouts, and we lift up and encourage each other to complete them. I feel like it gives me strength and determination in all aspects of life."
— Sara Martin
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