My name is Abby, and I am a senior in the Exercise Science major at Old Dominion University. I absolutely love studying Exercise Science, and I intend on pursuing a doctorate degree in Physical Therapy after I complete my undergraduate studies. I am also interested in working in the field of Health and Wellness, and I would love to become an entrepreneur in this field.
Currently, I hold many positions outside of being a full-time student. I began to work for ODU’s Student Recreation Center my freshman year as a Fitness Specialist, and now I am going on my third year as a certified personal trainer. Since then, I have expanded my horizons and have started working as a group exercise instructor and small group trainer.
Another position I hold within the Recreation and Wellness department is my job as an Outdoor Adventure Trip Leader. This is an especially rewarding position because I am able to watch trip participants grow out of their comfort zones as they face challenges and conquer fears. That growth can transfer into the college-setting, the workplace, and real-life. Not only that, but I am able to share my passion for the outdoors with students and faculty across campus.
Apart from my on-campus work, I work as a physical therapy technician in outpatient clinics throughout Hampton Roads. This experience, along with many hours of volunteer and observation hours accumulated over the years, affirms to me that physical therapy is a career that I will enjoy.
This academic year, I have taken the position as the Secretary of ODU’s Exercise Science Society. I am also in the Honors College, working toward fulfilling the requirements for ODU’s LeADERS program and am involved in undergraduate research regarding the Outdoor Adventure Program that I work for.
My current academic and personal goals include graduating with Honors in May 2020, graduating ODU’s DPT program in Spring 2023, and pursuing a fulfilling career that involves helping others related to my field of study. As a senior, I have learned to keep an open mind in order to turn opportunities into positive learning experiences. Through the remainder of my academic career, I know that I will continue to learn and grow in order to not only meet my goals, but to also exceed in everything I do.