Enid Keseko to Use Nutrition Research in Fight Against Chronic Diseases

Keseko's early experiences underscored the connection between malnutrition, obesity, and chronic diseases. "These experiences exposed me to the complex relationship between malnutrition, obesity, and chronic disease," she noted, recognizing that food issues extend beyond clinical settings to social and systemic levels.

Her subsequent internship at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology prompted her interest in nutrition research, leading her to pursue a master’s degree in public health nutrition. It was during her first international nutrition research conference that she decided to seek a doctoral degree.

While exploring various programs, she found a strong alignment with the work of HPEB professor Brie Turner-McGrievy, particularly in the areas of healthy eating and chronic disease prevention. Keseko appreciated the multidisciplinary approach of the Ph.D. program.

Over the past four years as part of Turner-McGrievy’s Behavior Research in Eating (BRIE) Lab, Keseko has developed her research skills and contributed to two NIH-funded projects aimed at enhancing health outcomes for underserved populations, especially African Americans. She also received the Olga I. Ogoussan Doctoral Research Award to support her dissertation project, which involved a randomized control trial assessing the impact of food documentaries on diet quality and self-efficacy in overweight or obese adults.

"Dr. Turner-McGrievy has been one of the most defining parts of my Ph.D. journey," Keseko said. "She has challenged me in the way the best mentors do and played a key role in developing my readiness to continue as an independent and experienced researcher."

With a focus on preventing diet-related chronic diseases and leveraging media and technology in nutrition education, Keseko plans to further her expertise with a postdoctoral position after graduation. She feels prepared for this transition due to the comprehensive experiences gained at the Arnold School, including working directly with participants and honing her research skills in data analysis and manuscript development.

Keseko emphasized the importance of building connections during her doctoral studies. "There’s a genuine sense of belonging at USC, and it makes the day-to-day feel more energizing," she expressed. "The connections I’ve built with my peers and professors have made the journey feel collaborative."

For students contemplating a similar path, she advises finding a purpose beyond personal aspirations. "Everyone tells you to ‘know your why’ before applying to a Ph.D. program, and that advice is solid," Keseko explained. "Your ‘why’ should encompass understanding whose lives your work can impact, which can help sustain you throughout the program and beyond."