91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵ

Why UNE

A key factor in my decision to attend 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵwas being able to fast-track my master's with the 3+2 Athletic Training program. I knew I was going to have at least three clinical rotations, and having that immersive experience my fifth year was something I really looked forward to. Another factor was the location. It’s stunning to be on the water and so close to the beach, and it’s something I definitely did not take for granted.

Exceptional Teaching and Learning

We had three amazing professors within the Master of Science in Athletic Training [M.S.A.T.] program. Knowing exactly who we’re [working with] every day was extremely nice and allowed us to build relationships. Having them to help us while we’re in school but also as colleagues and people to look up to was really inspiring.

I felt prepared for clinical experience knowing that all of the professors were clinicians themselves; we trusted that they knew exactly what they were talking about and had been in our shoes. At UNE, we get to experience what clinical rotations look like in a safe environment while using the athletic training room that we know and love. It is a very safe space to see what works, ask questions, and feel comfortable. 

Experiential Career Prep

My first two clinical rotations were a semester long. The first rotation was in a high school setting: I saw a full football season and got to know a lot of the athletes, which was extremely beneficial. Seeing another athletic trainer who works extremely hard, with about 400 students, was really eye-opening for me. 

My second rotation was with UNE, [where I worked with] men’s lacrosse and men’s hockey. I was able to be a part of the Teddy Bear Toss from the perspective of an athletic trainer. It was so impressive to see how much work goes into that game, and it was definitely a full-circle moment for me. 

My final rotation was a year long working with the Boston College women’s ice hockey team. I got to know them really well and work more hands-on with the athletes as I finished up my didactic learning. I saw the team all the way through [their season]. They have some of the best athletes in hockey nationwide, so that was a huge experience for me, and I was lucky to work with them. 

I’m now working at Maine Health in Biddeford in the orthopedic clinic—kind of a non-traditional setting for an athletic trainer. We went to the orthopedic clinic a few times [in the M.S.A.T. program] and it sparked my attention; I recognized that this was something I was capable of and would like to pursue. [UNE’s faculty] helped me with my interviewing skills and resume. They really helped me get my foot in the door and see what my future could look like.