The College of Applied Science and Technology (CAST) at Illinois State University is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year! This series, CAST 50×50, will to highlight 50 faculty, staff, students, alumni, and organizations within CAST that make the college special. These notable people will tell you that every day in CAST is a great day to be a Redbird!
Today we are featuring Adam Jagodinsky from the School of Kinesiology and Recreation.
Adam Jagodinsky from the School of Kinesiology and Recreation.
What is your position within CAST?
I am an assistant professor of exercise science within the School of Kinesiology and Recreation.
What is something you are absolutely fascinated with that you don’t talk about too often?
For the past several years I have become captivated by the art of storytelling. People are fascinating, and hearing interesting stories of people’s experiences (particularly through the radio medium) is enthralling to me. I could spend hours listening to programs such as Snap Judgement, The Moth, and Radiolab.
What were all of your degrees in and what part of your educational career did you find to be the most challenging?
I received a B.S. in kinesiology–healthcare science from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, an M.Ed. in kinesiology–biomechanics from Auburn University, and a Ph.D. in kinesiology–biomechanics from Auburn University. I experienced a particularly challenging portion of my educational career while I was completing my undergraduate degree. During my third and fourth year of undergrad, I had a preconceived mindset regarding my professional career path. Entering my fifth year, I realized that my true passions did not align with my intended path. Stumbling upon this crossroads and ultimately deciding to pursue a graduate research degree required a ton of introspection, but eventually brought a greater sense of fulfillment.
Favorite sports team and how far would you go to show your support?
Born and raised in Green Bay, Wisconsin, I am a Packers fan! I would go as far as living in Chicago Bears country to show my support. Go Pack Go!
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Throughout my life I have been lucky to have wonderful mentors, many within academia. Mentoring students is rewarding to me because I know personally how much of an impact a good mentor can have on students. Furthermore, I very much enjoy the student-faculty interaction and kinship among faculty members here at Illinois State.
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