Student Spotlight: Laura Reifferscheid

Laura Reifferscheid is a second-year PhD student at the University of Alberta Faculty of Nursing. Photo: Supplied.

Laura Reifferscheid is a second-year PhD student at the University of Alberta Faculty of Nursing. She was recently awarded best poster presentation at the Canadian Immunization Conference for her project: Evaluation of a Publicly Funded Rotavirus Vaccination Program with Recommendations for Reaching Underserved Populations. 

Interested in pursuing a Master’s Degree or PhD at the Faculty of Nursing? Read about Laura’s experience, her areas of research interest, and why she chose the University of Alberta Faculty of Nursing for her graduate studies.  

Why did you choose to become a Registered Nurse? 

I was drawn by the flexibility but would say that the way people are so willing to engage with nurses and share at their most vulnerable is what I most appreciate.

Why did you choose UAlberta? 

I initially chose UAlberta because of their nursing after degree program. During that time, I gained an understanding of how truly impressive their faculty is, so it was an easy decision for graduate school.

What motivated you to pursue graduate studies?

I am a perpetual learner - I can't stop!

What are you currently researching?

How offering immunizations in non-traditional locations can impact underserved populations.

What impact do you hope to make through your research?

I hope to interest program/policy makers in making healthcare access more efficient for those who need it most.

How have you been supported through your academic endeavours? 

My family has been extremely supportive and encouraging, and my supervisor (Dr. Shannon MacDonald) has also been an incredible support.

Plans for the future?

To paraphrase a saying: when I plan, God laughs. Right now I am focusing on enjoying the process of graduate work.