Student Profile: Martin Dietze-Hermosa
Last Updated on February 02, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Originally published February 02, 2021
By UC Staff
UTEP Communications
After completing his undergraduate and master’s work in Idaho and Utah, respectively, Martin Dietze-Hermosa hoped to complete his doctoral degree in a less frigid locale. He found warmer weather at The University of Texas at El Paso. He has also found fulfilling curriculum, faculty members and fellow students who have bolstered his academic and personal growth.
Name: Martin Dietze-Hermosa
Classification: Doctoral Student
Major: Interdisciplinary Health Sciences
What drew you to UTEP? I am passionate about human and sports performance. Thus, I sought out a mentor who is prominent in my chosen field at an institution providing a wide range of opportunities to graduate students. This led me to connect with Dr. Sandor Dorgo, professor in the Kinesiology Department at UTEP. Not to mention, I completed my bachelor’s degree in Idaho and master’s degree in Utah where it can get extremely cold, my wife was eager to move somewhere warmer.
What have you enjoyed most about studying here? The collaboration with fellow students, cohort members, and stellar faculty have fostered an environment of academic and personal growth.
In which extracurricular activities are you involved? During two semesters I participated in an intermural co-ed volleyball team at UTEP. That was a great experience to interact with students from other disciplines while playing a sport I enjoy.
What’s your favorite place to relax or study on campus? I prefer studying in the Library. In addition to providing various resources to students, I can find a quiet place that allows me to focus and complete the writing and reading I must do.
What has been your favorite class so far, and why? Sometimes in academia the value of soft skills such as communication and leadership can be overlooked. However, developing these skills are vital in diverse fields and professions. A leadership course I took within the Interdisciplinary Health Sciences doctoral program enabled me to refine my communication and leadership skills; a valuable course.
Tell us about a hands-on learning experience you’ve had at UTEP? Fortunately, I have conducted and assisted with multiple research projects encompassing the use of multiple laboratories. This exposure to new methodology, equipment, and faculty have greatly enhanced my graduate experience.
Tell us about research opportunities you’ve taken advantage of at UTEP? I have sought to be proactive in engaging in as many research opportunities as possible. I am part of the Fitness Research Facility team and have conducted several studies exploring human performance and health. This has resulted in personally presenting at regional and national conferences in addition to peer-reviewed journal submissions. Furthermore, faculty encouraged and supported my desire to pursue funding through federal agencies, national foundations and internal grants. The UTEP Graduate School provides numerous resources to graduate students interested in research such as the Graduate Student Research Expo or the Dodson research grant, of which I am a recipient.
What are your career aspirations? Upon completion of my doctoral degree, my desire is to pursue a career in higher education. I am passionate about teaching and researching in the field of kinesiology and health sciences. Most importantly, I am passionate about interacting with interested students in an engaging and easily comprehensible manner.
What advice would you give to an incoming UTEP student? Connect with people! This can be classmates, staff, and particularly faculty. For instance, getting to know your classmates is a great way to enrich your UTEP experience. The relationships formed early in your academic experience can benefit you immensely in many ways. Therefore, I would strongly recommend reaching out and connecting with people. Moreover, based on my own interactions, UTEP students, faculty, and staff are genuinely interested and committed to supporting and guiding you toward success.
What is your best UTEP memory so far? Our research laboratory has traveled to regional and national conferences to present our research. Interacting with likeminded individuals outside of a structured academic setting during these conferences is a great experience. Getting to develop lasting friendships while attending an exciting event with complimentary food is awesome – need I say more!
