For Clayton Hicks, a third-year medical and master’s student in bioethics, a research assistantship fostered his academic and professional growth. It started at IU Cancer Research Day 2024 when Hicks came across groundbreaking work on medical decision-making for pediatric bone cancer patients conducted by Janet Panoch, Ph.D. Hicks saw an opportunity not just to learn, but to contribute meaningfully to impactful research.
Hicks applied to work as Panoch’s research assistant through the Community Engagement Associate (CEA) program. “I was drawn to how the project explored shared decision-making between physicians and families,” Hicks said. This focus on patient-centered care aligned with his aspirations to bridge academic medicine and real-world impact. Through this role, Hicks delved into the world of qualitative research.
Hicks’ work required mastering transcript coding and developing theoretical frameworks. These skills allowed the research team to code transcripts of participant interviews based on common themes and to better analyze findings. Hicks’ responsibilities came with challenges, such as interpreting complex data and refining coding techniques, but he credited his persistence and his mentors for his success.
“Dr. Panoch has been an incredible mentor,” Hicks said. “She not only taught me how to conduct qualitative research, she also helped me make connections to foster my professional career as well.”
One of Hicks’ most memorable milestones of the assistantship was presenting his findings at the 2024 Society of Medical Decision-Making Conference in Boston. Preparing for and delivering an oral presentation to a professional audience was a defining moment in his academic journey. “It was nerve-wracking, but it boosted my confidence and expanded my professional network,” he said. This experience underscored the value of hands-on learning, where classroom concepts are applied to real-world scenarios, reinforcing Hicks’ technical and interpersonal skills.
Reflecting on his journey, Hicks sees his research assistantship as a significant landmark in his academic and career trajectory. Engaged learning solidified his commitment to academic medicine and patient-focused research, equipping him with skills and experiences that enhanced his residency applications.
To peers considering similar paths, his advice is simple but powerful: “Go for it! You’ll learn more than you ever expected and gain meaningful experiences for your future.”
Through engaged learning, IU Indianapolis fosters a culture where students like Clayton Hicks can translate their classroom education into impactful, real-world contributions. Opportunities like research assistantships provide knowledge, confidence, and skills to thrive in future careers. As Hicks looks toward a promising future, his journey showcases the boundless possibilities that come from seizing opportunities and taking charge of one’s education.
