Faculty Q&A
Posted: June 30, 2011
“A dozen years ago, I began doing research on wellness of medical students. That, coupled with my lifelong heart research, has led me to follow and be discriminating of both scientific and lay literature related to health and physical fitness. I also like mystery novel audio books whenever I am traveling. Some of my favorites are by Robin Cook and Tony Hillerman. “Mostly, I listen to National Public Radio. It is the only source of national and international news and information that doesn’t require sitting still. I am a long distance runner (two marathons last year), and it is a great way to help time pass faster mile after mile and yet stay informed about significant events worldwide.” 
“My reading pile is very diverse. In addition to current research in exercise, I stay current on professional articles that reflect issues affecting working fitness professionals, especially those related to the business of fitness. “I have two young daughters, so when I am home, I am reading children’s books and listening/singing along to their favorite music, which right now is Taylor Swift! It certainly creates a good balance in my life. 
“‘Hinds Feet on High Places,’ by Hanna Harnerd. This little book is a story of sorrow and suffering, with great triumph, and has turned out to be a helpful parenting tool as well as a great reflection of what affects one and all of our lives.
“I listen to Jack Johnson, a Hawaiian surfer dude, as well as the Rock and Roll of Bob Seger, Jackson Brown, etc.”
Yen Ping Kuo, Ph.D., Associate professor, SOMA “‘Echo Maker,’ by Richard Powers, which was the winner of the National Book Award in 2006. I love stories that spin off from science or medicine in a very realistic way, and then slowly but surely take the characters (as well as me) to the emotional inner place one has never been before. “I am a big fan of classical music and a supporter of our local classical radio station, KBAQ. While working, I love to be radiated by the brilliance of Mozart; in my moment of solitude, I prefer the soulfulness of Chopin and Ravel. I am also entertained every day by live piano music played by my 14-year-old son, who is inspired to be a concert pianist.”
“I’m reading ‘Daniels’ Running Formula’ by Jack Daniels, Ph.D., in an effort to apply a systematic, scientifically based method to improve my running ability. While reading Daniels’ book, I also found interesting information to share with students, which was a great bonus! “If I have music on while I work, I prefer classical or some instrumental. I find it soothing, and the compositions help me focus. On the other hand, when I listen to music while I am out for a jog, it has to be fast-paced with catchy lyrics – anything to keep my mind distracted as the miles go by!”