Nutritional Sciences student Anya Thompson pursues the science of caring

Friday, October 25, 2024

Media Contact: Christy Lang | Director, Marketing and Communications | 405-744-9740 | christy.lang@okstate.edu

Anya Thompson, an Oklahoma State University sophomore, is blazing her own trail with determination and compassion.

Despite her family's deep roots at OSU, Thompson was determined to do something different. 

"I was determined to carve my own path," Thompson said. "I often joked about going to the University of Oklahoma."

OSU's welcoming atmosphere and commitment to student success eventually won her over. Thompson said she deeply appreciates the supportive environment that extends across the entire university, fostering a sense of community and shared success.

"At OSU, if you want something, there's always a resource or person on campus ready to help you achieve it," Thompson said. "Every director, advisor and professor genuinely wants to see each student succeed." 

Majoring in nutritional sciences with a pre-med focus, Thompson's passion lies in working with the geriatric community. Her goal is to eventually pursue a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree.

“I chose this major because I believe in a more holistic approach to geriatric health care,” Thompson said. 

She envisions a future where health care considers how diet, physical activity and mindfulness can all play significant roles in improving health outcomes.

Thompson's academic journey is already marked by impressive research endeavors. She's currently researching how boredom affects the mental health and overall well-being of older adults. Her previous research has been equally compelling.

“Previously, I researched ambiguous loss in centenarians, employing qualitative data analysis grounded in ambiguous loss theory, which I abstracted and presented at a conference," Thompson said. 

Her upcoming presentation in Seattle this November focuses on another critical issue.

"I will also be presenting about Forgiveness as a Resource for Countering Feelings of Loneliness Among Women Aging in Correctional Custody," she said.

But Thompson's contributions extend beyond the classroom. As the facilitator of the President’s Leadership Council, she facilitates growth and development among her peers. She's also the chapter founder and president of Purple Pals, a nonprofit organization that supports individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

Purple Pals holds a special place in her heart. 

"Our nonprofit aims to provide caregivers with a much-needed break and create connections for those with Alzheimer's, whom we refer to as 'Pals,'” Thompson said. “We host events for our Pals, allowing their loved ones to take a break. We also engage with our community to foster friendships with older adults, bridging intergenerational gaps."

The impact of this work is profound, both for those they serve and for Thompson herself.

"Hearing volunteers express their eagerness to return or residents tell me that our activities brighten their day is the best part about it for me," Thompson said. “I wholeheartedly believe in the mission of Purple Pals and am proud to be part of it."

The intimate learning environment at OSU has been crucial to her academic and personal growth. 

"One of my favorite aspects of my degree is the connections I make in class," she said. "In major-specific courses, class sizes are smaller, allowing for more meaningful interactions. It's wonderful to see familiar faces and cultivate relationships with peers and professors."

Thompson credits much of her growth to the mentorship she's received at OSU. Tashia Cheves, who oversees the Leadership Council's curriculum, has been particularly influential. 

"The skills, tools and resources I've gained from this council are invaluable," Thompson said. "It has transformed me into a better servant leader on campus."

Cheves recognizes Thompson’s dedication to leadership and excellence among her peers.

“Anya is a true example of what it means to be a life-giving leader,” Cheves said. “She truly steps into spaces and makes them better by breathing life into them. Having the privilege of being a small part of her journey has not only been rewarding but also inspiring. She's empathetic, compassionate, deeply inquisitive and a genuine joy to be around.”

Dr. Alex Bishop, who Thompson has worked on geriatric research initiatives with, has also been a source of inspiration. His support and passion for geriatrics have been incredibly motivating for Thompson, reinforcing her commitment to the field.

Bishop said the inspiration goes both ways.

“Students like Anya effectively make me a better instructor, scholar, and mentor,” Bishop said. “Anya has an incredibly strong work ethic and desire to change and improve the lives of others. She stands out as a leader on campus. I have been so impressed with her willingness to advocate for residents in the Stillwater community impacted by memory loss and dementia.”

Thompson’s sights are set on the OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine in Tulsa for her graduate studies. Her ultimate goal is to make significant changes in the fields of nutrition and medicine by empowering individuals with more autonomy in their health care decisions.

Bishop said he knows Thompson will accomplish all she dreams to achieve and much more.

“Every now and then, a student will come along who is a quintessential student-scholar with a promising future ahead,” Bishop said. “Anya is one of those students.”

As Thompson continues to carve her path at OSU, it's evident that her impact will extend far beyond the campus boundaries, touching the lives of many in the years to come.

Story By: Jillian Walker | jillian.walker@okstate.edu