Iryna Sharalevska
Iryna Sharalevska is a graduate student in Recreation, Sport and Tourism.
What are your general impressions of your graduate program and the RST department?
I love every moment I have spent here! The opportunities for research and professional development we are offered by the graduate program are
limitless. I consider it a big honor to be able to work with and learn from top-notch researchers.
What has been your most interesting experience at the University of Illinois?
I have had so many interesting experiences at the University that it is hard to pick just one. Along with trips to conferences, I have benefited
greatly from working with others on research projects and in study and discussion groups.
Briefly describe your research focus.
Among my research interests are topics such as leisure behavior in families, leisure-related technologies and family, child development in the
context of family, leisure in inter-cultural marriage, transnational marriages, and diversity in leisure.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I would like to continue in academia. I love the atmosphere of academia and would love to find employment teaching and conducting research at a
respected university.
What do you like to do for fun?
I like a variety of things: travelling, outdoor activities, spending time with friends and family.
Why would you recommend graduate studies in RST to others?
The research conducted in the Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism is very multidisciplinary and applicable to different fields. It is
very rewarding to see the results of your work making a difference in people's lives.