The program really expanded my view of research and just helped me make a lot of connections as an undergraduate student, especially as a freshman and sophomore.
Nov. 4, 2025
When Amy Winkler was named a Discovery Fellow, she was excited but also a bit hesitant. Winkler, who graduated this spring with a nursing degree, had no previous research experience but was determined to make the most out of the opportunity. She was connected with Kimberly Powell, an associate professor in the University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing, through the program and began research during his first semester on campus.
“I kind of went from zero to 100. Dr. Powell was awesome. She was super patient with me. I went from not knowing hardly anything about research to working on a pretty high-level project with a really distinguished researcher.”
Winkler’s research efforts allowed her to interact with numerous faculty in the School of Nursing and share her work with a variety of audiences. She even took her work to Jefferson City in 2023 during the annual University of Missouri Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol. Winkler’s research led to a handful of awards and helped prepare her for a career as a nurse.
“The program really expanded my view of research and just helped me make a lot of connections as an undergraduate student, especially as a freshman and sophomore. It was really cool that I expanded my network with some amazing people when I was still so fresh in my college experience.”
To read more Discover Fellows student profiles, visit the Honors College website.
Story by Logan Jackson
Video by Eric Kiekeben