It's a strange thing for me really- to be attached to something so repetitive. I like change and spontaneity and unpredictability... but only to a certain extent. I also get really comfortable in monotony and have a hard to leaving it. So the end of the semester is hitting me kind of funny.
I have been extremely lucky. I found the perfect program at BYU- the Athletic Training program. Four semesters of long hours and extremely specialized classes. I honestly cannot believe we are already half way done. I have made some extraordinary friends and had some really cool classes. Best of all, I am three for three on outstanding clinical assignments. And I am planning on making it four of four in the fall.
My first assignment at American Fork High School was the best confidence builder I could have asked for. As a brand new student I was thrown into the world of acute injuries, emergency care, and fast ankle taping.
My next assignment was with BYU Men's Rugby. This was more laid back since it was off-season, but a great opportunity to learn how to rehab post-op athletes. I also made some great friends and found my own little corner of culture shock at BYU.
Now, I am (sadly) finishing up with Utah Valley University Track and Cross Country. It was a hard assignment at first- a fifty minute round trip drive, long hours (20-25 a week), we weren't allowed to wear BYU gear, a huge team, mostly overuse injuries-- I thought I was going to die. But alas, here we are. Words cannot express how grateful I am for this assignment. First reason? The athletes. They were so great. Humble, kind, friendly, and talented. I support UVU Track (sorry BYU). Second reason? My ACI. He was so great. My fiance just asked what the best thing I learned from Spencer was. I would say, without question, the way he dealt with his athletes. That is a BIG team, but he still took time to develop relationships, show genuine care and concern, and work as a mentor- not just an athletic trainer. So many people sought him out for help with problems other than injuries. He just really, really cares. That is a big part of this profession- and often overlooked.
I am grateful for my experience at UVU and as a student athletic trainer. It's amazing to be a part of something bigger than yourself- to see someone regain ability and confidence following injury because YOU helped them achieve that. UVU has, by far, been my most rewarding experience as a student athletic trainer. I can't wait to see what the future holds.
BYU Football- here I come.
"I firmly believe that any man's finest hour, the greatest fulfillment of all that he holds dear, is the moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle-victorious." - Vince Lombardi
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