Jesse Maugeri
It’s been really good to learn the practical components alongside the theory, in all subjects.
I attended Freshwater Senior Campus in the Northern Beaches, graduating in 2017. I wanted to continue my studies straightaway, so I started university in 2018.
I always wanted to work in sport. It was something I always envisioned, but during my studies in Years 11 and 12, I developed an interest in business subjects. I felt that the Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Management would allow me to learn about both the exercise science side and the business side of sport, which would help me decide which areas I wanted to branch into. Now in my final year, I chose electives that would take me into the exercise science pathway.
I like to help others in the best way that I can, whether that is in a clinical health setting or in an elite sport setting. Using my knowledge to assist someone who is recovering from injury or stroke, or working with athletes to help them achieve their goals is what I am passionate about.
Over the university break, I spent some time in a clinic, observing and learning, and I’ve recently begun a placement there as part of my internship subject. It’s in women’s football, in the player welfare department, which means I’m working alongside physiotherapists.
When I was deciding what university to attend, I went to various Open Days – initially, I wasn’t sure what university would be a good fit for me and my interests. But, when I came to the UTS Open Day, I found it incredibly welcoming. Plus, the Moore Park campus had just opened and the idea of studying and learning in the sporting precinct of Australia was so appealing. I hadn’t seen or heard of anything else like it.
One highlight of this degree has been studying exercise physiology, when we had to learn VO2 max testing on the treadmill in the exercise physiology research laboratory. I was lucky enough to be selected by the teacher to use the treadmill – and the only regret I have about that experience was that I was wearing a grey T-shirt! It was a really great experience. It’s been really good to learn the practical components alongside the theory, in all subjects.
Studying this degree has changed my view on health. When I speak to people, and tell them that I want to study physiotherapy, they automatically think about elite athletes. It doesn’t occur to them that the general population also needs physiotherapy – in emergency departments, in hospitals, in rehabilitation centres. So, studying this degree has widened my view of how far an impact I can have on people.
In the future, I’m planning on applying for a Master of Physiotherapy to become a physiotherapist. Currently, I am doing my Certificate IV in Fitness at TAFE in conjunction with studying my degree – you can receive recognition of prior learning, which is how I also completed my Certificate III this year. I would eventually like work in a clinic or centre, and transition my way into sport – if not in Australia, then in America.
My advice to future students is to be open to new experiences. I remember the first day I came here, we had a meeting on campus and I knew no-one. I walked out and just sat on the steps by myself. I saw this guy approach me. I honestly didn’t think I’d make any friends at university, but I’m still friends with him today; we meet up a lot, and we’re in multiple classes together.
Also, get involved in your classes and U:PASS, and don’t be afraid to ask advice from your lecturers. They’re top of their field, they know what they’re talking about and they’re more than happy to help you if you’re falling behind or if you need any further clarification.
