Finding a True Calling: From Athletic Training to Academia
Dr. Sally Paulson
The Department of Health and Human Performance welcomes new faculty member, Dr. Sally Paulson, a dedicated professional whose journey to the University of Houston is both inspiring and enlightening. With a background in athletic training and a passion for teaching, Dr. Paulson has navigated various roles and challenges to find her true calling in academia.
Early Life and Education
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Originally from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Dr. Paulson went to school in Detroit where her journey in kinesiology and exercise science began. Despite not being particularly skilled in sports, her love for the field led her to pursue a career as an athletic trainer. “I’ve always liked sports, but I’m not very good at them. And so I was trying to find a way that I might be able to be in that world,” she shared. She completed her undergraduate degree in sports medicine at the University of Detroit Mercy, followed by a master’s degree in physical education and athletic training at California State University, Chico, and a PhD in kinesiology from the University of Arkansas.
Transition to Teaching
Dr. Paulson’s first job out of college required a balance between teaching and athletic training. Although the long hours of athletic training were demanding, she discovered a newfound passion for teaching. This realization led her to pursue a career in academia, where she could combine her love for sports with her interest in education.
Academic Career and Research
Throughout Dr. Paulson’s academic career, she has taught various subjects, including biomechanics, childhood obesity, and the physiology of human exercise. She is passionate about engaging students and making learning interactive. “I like it when students make the connection to the content,” she explained. Dr. Paulson employs various techniques to foster a deeper understanding of the material, from think-pair-share activities to comprehensive research projects. “If there’s any way to get them up and moving and trying to do it, I’m very excited about that,” they added.
Her research interests include functional fitness, aging, biomechanics, and dual-task research, particularly in relation to Alzheimer’s disease. She has been involved in a lifestyle intervention project aimed at reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s through cognitive and physical exercises. “We did some dual tasking as part of that Alzheimer’s research project where they would walk at their normal pace and then ask them to count backwards from a series of three,” she described.
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Personal Life and Interests
Outside of work, Dr. Paulson enjoys traveling, exploring new cuisines, and spending time with her husband, Billy, and their 16-year-old cat, Zoe. “She’s still as crazy as always. She’s just slowed down a little, but she’s old,” she laughed. Her and her husband recently moved to Houston and are excited to experience the city’s vibrant food scene and sports culture. She also has a particular fondness for hockey and has a goal of visiting all the hockey arenas across North America, with only a few remaining on her bucket list. “I’m trying to cross off all the arenas. I think I only have eight remaining,” she noted.
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Looking Forward
Dr. Paulson’s journey from athletic training to academia is a testament to her dedication and passion for both sports and education. Her commitment to interactive teaching and meaningful research continues to inspire students and colleagues alike. As she settles into ther new role at the University of Houston, we look forward to seeing the positive impact she will undoubtedly make on the academic community.
Dr. Sally Paulson's Directory Profile