Fairfield U. Egan Alumna Presents Research At National Conference

FAIRFIELD, CT ? Anna Sherman, a 2024 graduate of Fairfield University and former member of the school?s women?s lacrosse team, presented her research on mental health among NCAA Division I student-athletes at the annual meeting of the American Public Health Association (APHA). The research was conducted as part of her senior capstone project, a requirement for the bachelor of science degree in public health at Fairfield?s Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies.

The APHA conference marked Sherman?s first experience presenting research at a scholarly event. The meeting is recognized as one of the most prominent public health conferences globally, bringing together experts and researchers from various fields.

?My professors had talked about conferences like APHA in class,? Sherman said. ?So when I got the email that my project was selected, I knew it was a great opportunity.?

Sherman?s research examined the prevalence of mental health issues among Division I varsity athletes. Her findings indicated that student-athletes experience higher levels of anxiety and depression and lower self-esteem compared to non-athlete peers. The study surveyed 50 Fairfield University students, nearly all of whom were women, with an equal distribution of varsity athletes and non-athletes.

Sherman?s interest in the topic stemmed from her own experiences balancing the demands of academics and athletics. She noted that the pressures of managing coursework, training schedules, and performance expectations contributed to her own mental health challenges.

Her study confirmed existing research suggesting that anxiety and depression are prevalent among NCAA athletes. She advocated for universities to develop programs and interventions to better support student-athlete mental health.

Now a graduate student at Boston University, Sherman described the APHA conference as a valuable opportunity to engage with public health professionals. She also gained insight into the diverse career paths available within the field.

?The conference reminded me of how broad public health can be,? she said. ?It was exciting because I haven?t quite figured out what I want to do when I finish my master?s degree. But I am happy that I decided to go with public health.?