First Observation: Introduction to Athletic Training

Yesterday afternoon, I spoke with Kim Urmaza, a first year freshman, who is currently in the Athletic Training Education Program (ATEP). I had lunch with her so she can fully explain the program to me. She is in the Dual Program here at the university in which after seven years she will receive a doctoral degree in Physical Therapy.
I first asked Kim, “What is Athletic Training?” She answered, “Athletic Training is an allied health profession in which athletic trainers prevent and rehabilitate injured athletes.” In the beginning of fall 2009, Kim started this program by attending required Athletic Training classes and rotations. The classes prepare her for the clinical rotations, in which she attends to learn and improve athletes’ overall wellness. For these rotations, I learned that Kim must wear her professional uniform which consists of an NSU athletic training t-shirt, blue or khaki shorts or pants, and sneakers. Each semester she has to log in about 50 hours so she can advance to the next level of the program. A typical rotation can last four hours each session. Overall, Kim introduced the basics of this program which throughout the semester I will learn more about this highly respected program here at Nova.