NUHS Student Wins 2018 Thomas Hyde Research Poster Competition

Addison Ozakyol

National University Doctor of Chiropractic student Addison Ozakyol recently received first place in the 2018 Thomas Hyde Research Poster Competition sponsored by the American Chiropractic Association Sports Council (ACASC). The ACASC's Symposium was held October 5-6 in Minneapolis, Minn. and the poster competition is an annual event.

Mr. Ozakyol was one of six student presenters from Sports Council chiropractic programs across the country. "I had been working on my research project off and on for over two years, so bringing it to completion was very exciting," he said.

The subject of his research, Assessment and Management of Subacromial Impingement Syndrome and Front Crawl Swimming Pathomechanics, holds personal significance for Mr. Ozakyol. Read more about his journey here.

The importance National University places on student research is a tradition, and a vital component of a well-rounded learning experience that includes time management.
 
"There would be days where I'd read three or four articles, and not be able to apply any information to my own research. I learned to quickly evaluate the merit of research papers--and remain motivated to reach my goal while on a busy schedule," he added.

Although Mr. Ozakyol says he has many great examples of inspiration, his grandfather holds a special place because he was the first in the family to receive a university education. Eventually he worked for the AFL-CIO in the Foreign Service. "He took his small-town roots and made a name for himself on an international scale." Mr. Ozakyol says he is striving to carry on the family tradition of education and achievement.

As this year's NUHS-Florida Sports Council president, his continued participation in the student club has given him the opportunity to network with many professionals, including past ACASC Sports Chiropractor of the Year, Dr. Jonathan Wilhelm. (Wilhelm's own inspiring story began as a volunteer with local sports teams and led him to become the team chiropractor for the USA's Olympic Bobsled Team in PyeongChang, Korea).
 
Mr. Ozakyol highly recommends the poster competition to his classmates. "I presented to people who had worked multiple Olympics, international championships, or with professional teams. I learned a ton about a topic I am passionate about, worked on my public speaking skills, and opened a lot of doors for the future."