From student athletic trainer to physical therapist

During her time as a student in the School of Rehabilitation Science (SRS), Joanne was a tutor, a research and teaching assistant (in fact, she was the only second-year student to be hired as a teaching assistant for the first-year cardiorespiratory class). She was also the co-president of the Physical Therapy Student Society.

Her academic excellence and focus on the field of cardiorespirology was recently recognized with the Cardiorespiratory Division Award on behalf of the Cardiorespiratory Division and the Canadian Physiotherapy Association.

This award encourages the pursuit of a career in cardiorespiratory related physiotherapy care and provides recognition to students who demonstrate commitment to cardiorespiratory care. Cardiorespiratory physical therapy focuses on the treatment and rehabilitation of patients with heart and lung conditions.

We asked Joanne about her time as a MPT student, how she selected her chosen field and what she enjoyed the most about her studies.

I have always been drawn to the science behind human movement and helping people get back to the activities and lifestyle they love post injury or illness. The drive to pursue physical therapy began when I was a student athletic trainer for the University of Regina Women's Soccer team from 2015-2020. I was able to work alongside a very strong interdisciplinary team that included physical therapists and seeing that I was able to consistently challenge myself in my studies of kinesiology and help those I worked with not only heal their injuries but return to the activities they loved made me realize this profession was the perfect fit for me. 

My interest was sparked initially by the complexity of the cardiorespiratory course when it was first introduced in the MPT program. I found myself spending more time after class in discussion with the professor and diving into self-study after class as I was fascinated by the intricate nature and nuances of cardiorespiratory system.

This spark ultimately led me to request a clinical placement at RUH in the Intensive Care Unit department. I feel this placement ignited that spark. Seeing how physical therapy intervention could not only optimize someone's health but contribute heavily to saving their life, truly cemented my love for this discipline and profession.

These experiences enriched my time in the program immensely. These experiences gave me the opportunity to grow my leadership and professional skills outside of the classroom, the ability to work with a variety of very skilled and inspiring professionals, meet and hear the healthcare journeys of people within the community, and support my fellow students in their journey of becoming a physical therapist. 

Balancing it all was challenging at times, I will admit. However, it provided me with so much joy and unforgettable learning opportunities that if I had to do it all over again, I would not change a thing. I truly love what I do, and I wanted to embrace every aspect of MPT program.

Always remember your "why" for wanting to become a physical therapist. It will help you navigate your toughest of days or cases and remind you that you are on the right path. 

The variety and evolving nature of the physical therapy profession allows practitioners to constantly grow and explore their "why" for being a physical therapist throughout their careers. I am excited that this will provide me an opportunity to be a student for life and find more passions within this practice like I have already found cardiorespiratory care.