Q: What is your first-choice university & course?
A: University of Brighton. Exercise, Health, and Rehabilitation BSc (hons). (But aspire to internally transfer to the Physiotherapy BSc course after a year!)
Q: Why have you chosen this career path？
A: I have always been fascinated with the complex machine that is the human body, thus learning about our anatomy in sports science feels like learning a magician’s secrets! I have been able to learn of the science behind our functioning and how we can monitor and maximise our potential. Physiotherapy excites me as it provides me the opportunity to put these theories into practice.
Q: You have recently completed two physiotherapy internships at UP Clinic and The Clinic. What did you gain from those experiences?
A: I gained greater insights into the profession through a one-on-one interview with a highly qualified, well-experienced physiotherapist who now runs several clinics across Shanghai. We discussed his journey to his current position, some interesting case studies, his opinions about specialisations, cultural differences in approaches to physiotherapy, and current limitations within the field, incorporating prospective ideas on how they should be altered. I had the opportunity to observe several client sessions with different physios, was introduced to a clinic’s environment, observing physio-client interaction, and watching the series of events of a session: From objective assessments and follow-ups to muscle release, strengthening exercises and prescribed exercises. Through their brilliant deduction skills, I learned the complex interactive nature of our bodies such as how a bone growth on the heel can stem from weakness in the hip. Lastly, they introduced me to the uncomfortable process that is muscle relaxation! This allowed me to understand the experience of the patient. I experienced cupping and release of my psoas, as well as tested my core stability, completed a Y-test (my movement function report showed a stability imbalance in my upper quarter!), and more. This experience truly enhanced my understanding and provided further clarity into the rehabilitation process.
At The Clinic, I have had the opportunity to work with several extremely qualified and talented physiotherapists and shadow their sessions with various clients. This clinic is highly regarded for their work with advanced athletes; thus, I had the privilege of observing the recovery and enhancement of several advanced individuals of various ages, from differing sports and with different goals. It was fascinating watching the process of rehabilitation, being able to observe the differing tests and assessments that need to be done to assess the individual’s physiological state. Their precise knowledge was truly abundant, fanning the flame of my excitement about this field and inspiring me to one day be able to exude the same level of expertise. Furthermore, I’ve been given access to the classes they offer, such as flexibility and injury prevention, Pilates, and more. Their goal here, with the physio sessions and in these classes, is education and to guide the clients to support their own rehabilitation and exercise, of which I believe is an extremely effective method in adherence and motivation.
Q: What is your expected Diploma score?
A: 41.
Q: What has been your favourite subject (and/or teacher) during your time here, and why?
A: I have to give true credit to my two Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS) teachers I’ve had over IB, Mr.Mapfuwa and Mr.Wyatt, as. I was excited to come to each lesson as they were not only filled with laughter, but their radiant energy fueled my interest for the subject. Each of our classes held an extremely comfortable environment in which I could ask any question, no matter how ridiculous, as well as engage in interesting debates that led to several research rabbit holes! I truly absorbed their passion for the subject, igniting my interest and curiosity for this field, of which I am extremely grateful for.
Q: NAIS is a small school. How has this helped you in your IBDP studies?
A: Contrary to many opinions, I think having a small class size has been a true aid in my learning through IB. We’ve been given intimate, personalized learning, which encourages self-improvement, enhancing your own performance, and working towards individual goals as opposed to comparisons with the class average or peers. Furthermore, this closeness as allowed us to grow close with our teachers, feeling comfortable to ask questions and engage in critical debates.
Q: Since joining in Year 9, you have been involved in a wide range of things at NAIS. What might you miss most about NAIS or what might be your favorite memories of it?
A: From my first year here, I joined several sports teams and participated in several of our school’s productions. Between the two, I’ve been able to not only engage in these projects with my friends but also work with other students across year groups and form new friendships. Over the years, it was typically a similar cohort that participated in these groups, allowing these friendships to blossom over the years. I really admire all the friends I’ve made along the way and am really going to miss them and am really excited for where the future takes them too. Additionally, this comfortable environment wouldn’t have been possible without my amazing drama teacher (Ms.Styles) and my fabulous coach (Ms.Nati), who made these activities so much fun and a true joy to be a part of and I will extremely miss them both.
Q: If you had one piece of advice for students currently in Y12 (and the school generally) in terms of the final year in school, what would it be?
A: Pace yourself. It sounds cliché, but I often found I was steamrolling through work, worried that due to the volume of work I had, if I stopped, I would fall behind. However, that is not the case. In fact, taking time away from work will allow you to work x10 better. If you keep charging your phone even though it’s already at 100%, eventually, you will wear out the battery. Organize yourself well and plan for burnouts, procrastination, and slow workdays. Be willing to adapt; look forward, not back.
Wishing Tia all the best as she begins her exciting journey at the University of Brighton!
