“The course prepared me for this role with over 1000 hours of placements, lots of practical components focusing on communication, active listening and person-based approaches.”
After studying a Bachelor of Science (Kinesiology) in Canada, Cierra was interested in working in sports physiotherapy. The Doctor of Physiotherapy attracted her because of the opportunity for extensive placements, research and exposure to Melbourne’s world-class sports scene, which has set her up for a varied role back in Canada.
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Why did you decide to study the Doctor of Physiotherapy?
I wanted to do a three-year doctorate program in a place that would allow me to work in sports! I was really drawn to Melbourne as a city and the sports scene. The University of Melbourne has a lot of variety for placements and opportunity in research which attracted me.
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What did you like most about your course?
The range of courses and content, I feel very capable in a lot of different environments. I found the introduction to specialities like woman’s health and paediatrics so exciting and different to a lot of programs. I developed really good communication skills in both interviewing and treatment scenarios.
On the flip side, the most challenging aspect of the course is the balance of school workload, placement and outside work.
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What kind of work-integrated learning or practical experiences are part of the degree, and how did that impact your development?
I worked as a sports trainer throughout the course. It gave me a place to practice all the skills I was learning. I also worked in a clinical setting shadowing physiotherapists and getting to run rehab programs with them. This really helped me practice my hands-on skills and learn from other practitioners.
Another great part of the Doctor of Physiotherapy was the community research projects. We got to implement new programs in communities that are in need and spent two years with one community. It was so fun getting to know everybody and contributing something that helped people improve their quality of life.
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Where are you currently working? How did the course prepare you for this role?
I’m currently working as a physiotherapist and pelvic health provider in Canada. I treat a mix of orthopaedic injuries and pain as well as a range of pelvic health conditions like endometriosis, general pelvic pain, post-natal recovery, labour and delivery prep. What I enjoy most about my job is watching people's excitement when they achieve their goals.
The course prepared me for this role with over 1000 hours of placements, lots of practical components focusing on communication, active listening and person-based approaches. It's been extremely useful in people with chronic pain and the nature of my pelvic floor clients as it allows me to really connect with people and build a lot of trust.
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What advice do you have for someone considering the Doctor of Physiotherapy?
It's a lot of work, you won’t be good at everything, but as long as you continue to be open to learning, you’ll excel!