Christina’s study aims to describe the population diagnosed
with HIV at a late stage of infection as well as the incidence of
late diagnosis, examine longitudinal outcomes (viral load and
CD4 count) following a late diagnosis, and explore mechanisms
of late diagnosis, missed opportunities for HIV testing, and
new potential points of intervention. A combination of
quantitative and qualitative methods will be used.
This grant will give me dedicated resources and time to
complete my dissertation. I’m excited to get this grant
because, in a way, it validates my dissertation idea and makes
me feel like other experts in the field have reviewed my
research plan (and me!) and they think I can do it. It’s a nice
confidence boost! Plus, I will get experience completing
research independently and prove that I have what it takes to
be a successful scientist.
About the grant writing and application process, I would say
that it was stressful but doable. Start the process early to give
yourself plenty of time to refine your idea. Schedule regular
meetings with your mentor and make a calendar with a plan
to get section drafts done at certain times, and make sure you
have all the files you need organized. Get feedback from as
many trusted experts as possible, but know that you make the
final call. Believe in yourself and take care of yourself. Have
patience, and also know that your worth and your ability as a
researcher are not defined by whether you get the grant or
not.
Good Luck to all SHARC Grant Writers!