Academically, I have strived to build a strong foundation in anatomy, biomechanics and psychology. These courses have provided me with a deeper understanding of the human body and mind. Furthermore, I have undertaken independent research assignments that allowed me to explore the crossing of physical and mental health in sports. An example of this is researching about different aspects of anatomy and how the body works. This has given me an appreciation of the subject, and this will allow me to gain more knowledge for physiotherapy. This year I am studying physiology, sports massage and sports injuries. Here I will gain knowledge of the effects of exercise, how a range of injuries are caused and how massage can play an important role in the prevention and recovery of injuries. All of this, I believe, will benefit me throughout my degree. 

I recently shadowed an experienced physiotherapist which gave me an insight to the job and what key skills I needed to know. I watched the therapist consult the client with a series of questions. This involved asking where the pain was, what they think might have caused it, and how bad the pain is. After this, the therapist then found the issue and their focus was to help the client improve and regain mobility. For a physiotherapist their focus is identifying and maximising movement to improve health and wellbeing for patients. After the appointment the therapist then recommended a variety of stretches or exercises for their client to complete at home. This gave me an insight of what I may need to know and how my future may lay out as a physiotherapist. 

Simultaneously, I understand the mental aspect of sports, often described as the defining factor between winning and losing. This is another reason I am passionate about getting on this course because when an athlete is injured, I can help get them back fit enough to play and back to winning games. Knowing I have helped someone makes me feel happy as I am a compassionate person who enjoys making people happy. 

Beyond academics, I have been actively involved in my college sports teams and playing on weekends. These experiences have improved my leadership, communication, and teamwork skills, which I believe are essential for a successful career in sports therapy and physiotherapy. As a sports person I also have respect and dignity towards others. This is a key value to have as I look to understand other needs and priorities. Being in and around a sports team most of my life I have also seen many injuries. This made me feel sorry for my teammates and I wanted to help them anyway I could. This is why I want to pursue a future in physiotherapy.  

In conclusion, my passion for sports, combined with my dedication to understanding the physical and psychological aspects of athletic performance, drives my ambition to pursue a degree in physiotherapy. I am confident that your program will provide me with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to achieve my goals and make a meaningful difference in the world of sports.