What happened after high school?
I completed my bachelor of science in kinesiology at Queen’s University in Kingston Ontario. During that degree, I worked towards the prerequisites I needed as I planned to apply to Master’s of physical therapy programs. I was fortunate to be accepted and began Physiotherapy school right after finishing my undergraduate degree.
What do you remember from the Discovery Day event and what impact did it have on you?
During Discovery Day in Health Sciences, I had the chance to do a workshop with staff in the physiotherapy department at Children’s. I already had an interest in physiotherapy as a career, but this was the first time I had seen what physio could be like apart from when I had been a patient myself. The activities they took us through during the workshop showed me areas of physio (cardiorespiratory and neurological) that I had never seen or heard of before and it was really interesting to me! After this, I ended up doing a high school co-op in a physiotherapy clinic which furthered my interest, and I proceeded to follow through on all the schooling I needed to become a physio! I’m just now finishing my master’s degree in physiotherapy and am super excited to start my career.
Any advice for high school students?
I would highly recommend doing as many hands-on opportunities as you can (like Discovery Day in Health Sciences, co-ops, volunteering, job shadowing) to see what kind of job options are out there and what their day-to-day is like. Don’t be afraid to reach out to places or professionals you’re interested in, because the worst they could say is no, and most people are very willing to help you find your path. If/when you know what you want to do, make sure you get very familiar with what prerequisites and extra-curriculars you’ll need to do to set yourself up the best you can.
About the CMHF
The Canadian Medical Hall of Fame (CMHF) celebrates Canadian heroes whose work advances health in Canada and the world, fostering future generations of health professionals through the delivery of local and national youth education programs and awards.
This enduring tribute to our country’s rich medical history is showcased here and in our physical exhibit hall in London, ON
