Patterson Center Fall 2013 Programs

Each semester at the PCHP we offer a bevy of wonderful programs to help our students learn more about the health professions and preparing for graduate/professional school in these fields. Below you will find more information on them. Make sure to stop by and bring a friend!

Learning By Doing: Exercise Science Clinical Practicums

Students majoring in exercise science at Elmhurst College must complete a 200-hour clinical practicum (internship) which helps them take the information learned in class/lab and translate it to a professional work setting of their choice. Ryan Bock, Morgan Geimer, and Amy Baschen each finished their practicums during the spring of 2013 and have shared some details about their experiences below. 

Ryan Bock completed half of his practicum at G4G Gym (Going for Greatness) and the other half at York Chiropractic Clinic. The experience at G4G Gym taught him a lot about fitness and training for various populations including athletes, children, and adults. He was exposed to different exercise and fitness philosophies and concepts and saw how to integrate those into classes and individual sessions with clients. Ryan even learned about the business side of fitness including marketing, price pointing, and other aspects of owning a private gym. He was able to become a full-time personal trainer at the gym through this opportunity.  While at York Chiropractic Clinic, he observed a chiropractor with patients, was taught about chiropractic techniques, learned about the patient-client relationship in this setting, and gained an understanding about business practices in this environment. (Photo: Ryan is demonstrating a wall climbing exercise at G4G Gym.)

Morgan Geimer’s practicum was at Olympia Chiropractic and Physical Therapy. She worked side-by-side with a physical therapist seeing the nuances of working with patients presenting different PT needs. Her experience provided a lot of insight into orthopedic injuries and how to use massage and release therapy. She was even trained on soft tissue mobilization and ultrasound techniques related to PT. Morgan also benefited from observing how the therapists managed multiple patients at one time while still being able to develop personal relationships with them. (Photo: Morgan is testing out the Alter G, an anti-gravity treadmill used in rehab therapy.)

Amy Baschen split her practicum hours over two sites. At La Grange Hospital, she worked in cardiac and pulmonary rehab with patients by taking their blood pressure, heart rate and O2 stats, conducted orientations, and assisted them with completing paperwork. She was also able to observe stress tests, weight classes, and the catheterization lab where patients have cardiac and vascular diagnostic imaging done. At Courts Plus, Amy participated in personal training sessions and taught group exercise classes as well as worked Fit 4 Life. Both sites taught her more about professionalism and patient/client interaction. Most importantly, she walked away feeling more confident about what career path to pursue. (Photo: Amy is posing with her site supervisor from Courts Plus.)

Follow Through and Follow-Up: Keys to Establishing a Professional Relationship with a Professor

One of the benefits of attending a small college is the opportunity for faculty members and students to get to know each other well. This professional relationship can enrich the overall academic experience for students, but it takes both parties to make this happen. Faculty members make themselves available in class, via appointment, during set office hours, and over e-mail. Although some students will take advantage of these opportunities, there are others who do not reach out. Some may find it is difficult to start up a conversation unless they have a topic in mind; for instance a question about an assignment or what courses to take for the next term. Students shouldn’t let a lack of questions stop them from connecting with an instructor. Make the “getting to know you” agenda item number one! 

Students are encouraged to schedule appointments with faculty members to just talk about their career interests and academic goals. The first meeting may last for only 10-15 minutes. It can be easier to start small and build from there. For example, a student might begin by requesting to meet with the professor to share some of their professional goals and see what opportunities may exist on or off campus to help accomplish them. This appointment is a great time for pre-health students to explain why they are pursuing a particular career, how they selected their major, and what other things they do outside of class that may enhance or influence their school performance. From here, the instructor may have some insights to offer and specific suggestions on what to do next. Follow through and follow-up are crucial at this stage! Students should look into the recommendations and keep the professor apprised of the progress; whether it is in passing in hallway, via e-mail, or otherwise. Not only will this keep the lines of communication open, but it is also a sign of respect to show you listened to what they shared. Students may receive additional advice in follow-up conversations that allow for future interactions. 

 

 

These small steps help to create a strong connection over time. When new opportunities arise for internships, scholarships, leadership roles, etc., students who have made the effort to reach out are more likely to be included on the list of candidates. In addition, when the time comes for students to apply for jobs or professional/graduate school, letters of recommendation are often needed. If the faculty member knows a student well, they are more willing and better able to provide a strong letter of support. 

Relationships rarely develop overnight so a conscientious student will begin cultivating a few with various professors early on in their undergraduate career. Just remember, faculty members are people too—this shouldn’t be about using them for their connections or recommendations. You may come to find you value their opinions, wisdom, and company so much more!