Program: MPT/PhD dual degree program
Hometown: Burnaby, B.C.
What sparked your interest in pursuing a Master of Physical Therapy and PhD dual degree?
During my MSc. degree I read and conducted studies with participants living with neurological deficits such as vestibular loss, spinal cord injury, and Parkinson’s disease. I was so fascinated by the amount of information we could learn from these individuals and the research questions we could answer. Towards the end of this degree, I felt like I was missing a large component of research: the clinical perspective.
While I was answering important questions with my research, I wasn’t sure if these questions were important to the clinical world. The new MPT/PhD degree was the perfect choice. The MPT degree gave me the theory, the hands-on skills, and an understanding of the struggles associated with neurorehabilitation. With these experiences, I believe I can now ask and aim to answer questions that will more directly impact patient recovery.
What excites you the most about the 2015/2016 school year?
I’m very excited to connect with other researchers in similar fields and to place more focus on formulating my dissertation. I am also excited to work as a physiotherapist and apply research findings to clinical practice.
What’s one thing we might be surprised to learn about you?
I love to paint and sketch anatomical parts. I started sketching in grade 12 and have been in love with the human body ever since. Once I’ve completed the program, I would love to illustrate anatomical textbooks or posters during my free time.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Professionally, I see myself working part-time as a physiotherapist while teaching and conducting research. I hope to be living and immersing myself and my family in a vibrant community, enjoying the outdoors and exploring the regions around me.