Student Testimonial - Lauren J

Name: Lauren J
Program: ESLM (Exercise Science & Lifestyle Management)
Graduate: 2013

Tell us what you’re doing workwise right now.

I’m the Regional Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Coordinator at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre in Barrie, Ontario. I triage referrals for 3 local programs, determining patient appropriateness to safely participate in an exercise program following a cardiac event. I also lead quality improvement projects to continue enhancing the programs we can offer in our community.

Reflect on your time just prior to Humber. Why did you choose Humber College? What was your career ambition?

During the 4th year of my undergraduate degree in Human Kinetics, the newly formed College of Kinesiologists of Ontario announced that a regulatory exam would be implemented the following year. Many of the core competencies were elective courses at that time, so I felt panicked and unprepared to challenge the exam. I didn’t know what my career ambitions were yet, but I knew the Exercise Science and Lifestyle Management program at Humber had a curriculum tailored towards the core competencies of the registration exam, so that seemed like a good place to start.

How did the program set you on your path to where you are now?

I appreciated the exposure to the wide variety of career paths within the field of Kinesiology. Coming out of my undergrad it seemed like Kin students’ only career choices within the field were physiotherapy, athletic therapy, or chiropractic. At Humber I learned about Kinesiologist-owned clinics, ergonomics, occupational health & safety, and chronic disease management, which is where I landed. I love the holistic nature of lifestyle management; you get to discuss all areas of the participant’s health, from exercise and nutrition to emotional wellbeing. The internship at the end of the program was extremely valuable.

What advice would you share to someone considering this field?

Explore: learn about what Kinesiologists can do, and how those options fit with your interests. Network and volunteer to gain practical experience and test drive some options to see what you like. Many entry level positions are part-time, but may offer the chance to get involved with interesting projects that could lead to other opportunities down the line.