Each year the College of Health Sciences puts its best students forward for the Boise State University Top Ten Scholar award. The university then selects 10 finalists for the year. It’s stiff competition, but we wanted to introduce you to a few of our college’s nominees for the award.
Shaley James Vieg, May 2025 graduate, talks about how her internship with Boise State’s Sports Performance Health and Wellness Center provided hands-on opportunities to support Division I athletes and how her experiences as a student-athlete shaped her passion for exercise science.
Q: Why did you choose your major? Was there a personal experience that led you to your choice?
A: Ever since high school, I knew I wanted to study the human body and the importance of exercise. As a multi-sport athlete, I felt firsthand how physical activity benefits performance and mental health. Those experiences deepened my understanding of the positive impact exercise has on overall well-being.
Because exercise is such an important part of my own life, I knew I wanted a career that combines health, movement and helping others. Choosing kinesiology at Boise State allows me to take something I am passionate about and turn it into a meaningful and exciting career.
Q: What are your plans after graduation? What will your future career be and why?
A: After graduation, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in occupational therapy. My dream is to help others improve their quality of life through physical health, and occupational therapy is the perfect avenue for that.
I am especially interested in specializing in pediatric occupational therapy and working with children who have developmental delays and special needs. Growing up as an athlete and experiencing injuries myself also taught me the importance of rehabilitation. What excites me most about this future career is the opportunity to be hands-on, build personal connections with patients and support them in achieving their physical and mental health goals.
Q: Your resume is impressive! What are the top three things you’re most proud of and why?
A: One of the things I am most proud of is the variety on my résumé. It reflects that I am well-rounded and have strengths in academics, research and professional experiences.
Academically, being nominated as a Top 10 Scholar and graduating magna cum laude showcase the hard work I put into my education. Professionally, my internship with Boise State’s Sports Performance Health and Wellness Center was a valuable experience that gave me hands-on exposure in my future field. I am also proud of my research project, “Parental Influence on Children’s Motivation in Sport: Exploring Perceptions and Their Impact on Motivational Climate,” which I presented at the Undergraduate Research Showcase, because it challenged me to think critically and analyze data.
These accomplishments highlight the versatility and dedication that I bring to my academic and professional journey.
Q: What’s been your most meaningful experience while at Boise State?
A: My internship with Boise State’s Sports Performance Health and Wellness Center has been the most meaningful experience of my time here. The internship is highly competitive and usually reserved for upperclassmen, but I was offered the opportunity during my sophomore year. That experience taught me the value of pursuing goals with passion and determination.
During the internship, I worked directly with Division I athletes, helping train them in the weight room to enhance speed, strength, power and agility. Knowing I contributed, even in a small way, to their athletic performance was incredibly rewarding. The experience also gave me confidence, helped me grow personally and connected me more deeply to Boise State’s community.