Kinesiology graduate student Maya Ratner is turning curiosity into impact through research focused on an often overlooked population: postpartum women.
Ratner was drawn to Boise State for its familiarity and environment. Coming from Colorado, she was looking for a place that felt like home while offering strong academic opportunities. She found that balance in Boise, along with a field of study that aligned with both her interests and long term goals.
“Kinesiology stood out to me because it allowed me to stay rooted in science while studying something tangible,” Ratner said. “It is something I can actually see and apply.”
Her research centers on the relationship between psychological resilience and physical activity in postpartum women. The study also evaluates how feasible it is to measure that relationship, serving as a pilot project that identifies trends and possibilities for future research.
Ratner said her interest in the topic stems from a desire to explore populations that have not received enough attention in research. While postpartum depression has been widely studied, resilience in the postpartum period has not.
“The postpartum period is such an intense transition physically, mentally and socially,” she said. “We know physical activity supports mental health, so I wanted to explore how these two areas connect in this specific population.”
The significance of her work extends beyond individual health. Postpartum well being affects families, workplaces and communities. Approximately one in five women experience postpartum mood disorders, many of which go untreated. Ratner hopes her research can contribute to more preventative and accessible approaches to care.
“My goal is to help shift the focus from reacting to complications to actively supporting recovery,” she said. “That means creating low cost, high impact solutions that support both physical and mental health.”
Although data collection is still underway, Ratner said one of the most notable findings so far has been the widespread support for this area of research. Conversations with faculty, community members and policymakers have reinforced the need for greater attention to postpartum health.
That broader perspective became especially clear when Ratner presented her research at a legislative lunch. Translating her work for a policy audience challenged her to consider the economic and societal impacts of postpartum health.
“It showed me how research can inform real world decisions,” she said.
Ratner credits much of her growth to mentorship at Boise State. Faculty advisors and program support have helped her align her academic work with her goal of attending medical school. She said the smaller program environment has allowed for meaningful connections and hands-on guidance.
Her time at Boise State has also pushed her to take ownership of her work.
“I have learned how to take initiative and actively contribute rather than just complete assignments,” she said.
After graduation, Ratner plans to attend medical school and continue integrating research with clinical practice. She hopes to focus on preventative care, particularly in maternal health, and to bridge the gap between academic research and patient care.
Reflecting on her journey, Ratner said growth has been the most rewarding part.
“If you had told me a year ago I would be here, I would not have believed you,” she said. “You never know what you are capable of until you try.”