UBC’s Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) program is a full-time, two-year professional master’s degree program. It is one of only 15 MPT programs in Canada and represents the only entry-to-practice physical therapy program in the province of British Columbia. With 45 weeks of academic course work and over 1000 hours of clinical experience, students are exposed to the full breadth and depth of the profession.
This fall, we sat down with a few MPT students to find out what attracted them to the program, and what excites them about the year ahead.
Patrick Chiu
Year: 2
Hometown: Vancouver, B.C.
What sparked your interest in pursuing a Master of Physical Therapy?
In grade twelve, I faced a crossroad between pursuing a career in accounting or physical therapy. I decided to choose the path that promoted a more physically active lifestyle and I have had no regrets! I played competitive basketball and faced several injuries. My injury list included a fractured scaphoid, dislocated fingers, torn ATFL, jumper’s knee, and countless ankle sprains. I was always intrigued by my physical therapists’ ability to help rehabilitate me back to full function. I could sense the passion and genuine care from one physical therapist I saw and realized that helping people return back to activities they love can be one of the most rewarding feelings out there!
What excites you the most about the 2015/2016 school year?
In the upcoming school year I am most looking forward to being out on clinical placements. I thoroughly enjoyed my first two placements and cannot wait for my remaining four. Classroom learning is valuable, but what matters to me most is the application of the knowledge, which placements provide ample opportunities for. On my last placement, I completed a full assessment independently then decided to prescribe a walking aid to my patient. During his subsequent appointment, he came in with his walker with improved posture, an increased sense of confidence, and a big smile on his face. I’m looking forward to similar experiences on my next few placements.
What’s one thing we might be surprised to learn about you?
My first job ever at fifteen was to paint faces at Playland/PNE. I saw all sorts of customers ranging from cute little kids wanting Spiderman designs to partially intoxicated men wanting butterflies on their faces at 1am. I couldn’t complain because they tipped me really well.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself working part-time in a private practice clinic and in the hospital, while balancing an active lifestyle outside of work. I plan to complete several continuing education certifications including manual therapy orthopedic levels, acupuncture, and IMS. I would also be in the planning stages of opening my own physiotherapy practice.
Nadine Stunzi
Year: 2
Hometown: Calgary, Alberta (but I’ve lived in Vancouver for 13 years)
What sparked your interest in pursuing a Master of Physical Therapy?
My experience as a personal trainer involved working with people with varying diseases and disabilities. I loved the challenge of helping clients achieve fitness despite their limitations. Physio seemed to be a natural progression and a good growth opportunity, following a strong 3 years in the fitness industry.
What excites you the most about the 2015/2016 school year?
I’m pumped for more clinical skills and hands on experience! I’m also part of the Northern Rural Cohort (NRC), so I am very excited to experience more of the B.C. physio landscape and find strong mentors in towns across the province.
What’s one thing we might be surprised to learn about you?
I’d pick a bran muffin over a chocolate chip cookie any day!
On a more serious note, I myself have experienced immobility due to a back injury/condition; managing it’s chronicity inspired me to study physio and continues to teach me daily how to empathize when working in situations involving chronic pain.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Graduated I hope! More so, living in a vibrant community, offering accessible and great physio treatment! Five years offers a lot of time to ground myself in what I choose to value, and focus my energy towards the kind of physio problems that I want to specialize in solving. Of course, this livable community has to endorse the value of play, as I love to ride both bikes and surfboards, especially with a bunch of great people!