UBC’s online Master of Rehabilitation Science (MRSc) program is designed for working health professionals who wish to gain the knowledge to impact care and shape future practice.
As part of the Faculty of Medicine’s 2015 Spring Graduation Series, we sat down with Anne Pistawka from the Class of 2015 to find out what she enjoyed most about the program, and what’s next for her.
Anne Pistawka
What have you enjoyed most about your experience with UBC’s Master of Rehabilitation Science (MRSc) online program?
The UBC MRSc online program appealed to me because it allowed me to start with the Graduate Certificate in Rehabilitation then carry on to a Master’s — it was a perfect fit for me as a working physiotherapist.
Over the course of the program, I learned that research takes comprehensive and painstaking planning, a good dose of patience, trust that the process will lead to a meaningful end, determination to get there and open mindedness to acknowledge my biases. Ultimately, I have come away with a deeper respect for the voices of those I seek to help as a physiotherapist.
What surprised or challenged you over the course of the program?
Returning to academic study almost 25 years after receiving my UBC BSc (PT) was daunting at first, but with my children making their way to university, the timing seemed right.
I have been astounded at the depth of learning and sharing that online programs can offer. The dialogue, collaboration and sharing with other learners from many health disciplines which was stimulated by the various learning activities during the coursework was unexpected and appreciated.
What’s next for you?
I already work as a health educator and physiotherapist at the Central Okanagan Association for Cardiac Health (C.O.A.C.H) in Kelowna. As I reflect back over the past couple of years on my MRSc journey, I realize how the program has already helped me in my practice. I have written two grants, and both have been successful in securing funding for our cardiac rehabilitation program.
Visit UBC’s Online Master of Rehabilitation Science website to discover more learner and alumni profiles.