Future physical therapist hopes to help meet the needs of underserved Oregon communities

Undergraduate student Kylie Mannix chose OSU’s kinesiology program because of the many opportunities for hands-on, in-depth learning.

She says being surrounded by experienced, compassionate and professional staff and peers has played a crucial, beneficial role in her educational journey.

What inspired or interested you about physical therapy?

The field of physical therapy offers opportunities for influential and compassionate care working alongside people in need of rehabilitation and learning who they are to offer the best care possible. Having the ability to form connections with those being cared for and watching their journey progress is a great inspiration to me.

Have you had to overcome any challenges in your academic journey?

One significant challenge I’ve had to overcome in my academic journey is the same challenge that affected all students, and still affects many to this day. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I experienced a significant reduction in accessibility to educational resources, as well as a significant decrease in education quality and availability in general.

To overcome this challenge, my greatest outlet was those who were around me supporting my educational career. Friends, family, peers and educators, along with time and effort spent with them, allowed me to catch up and further my education.

Do you participate in campus or community clubs or organizations?

Currently, I am a part of the Dixon Recreation staff as a lead lifeguard. I also have some experience participating in and learning from Pre-Therapy and Allied Health Club opportunities and the Horticulture Club.

Have you participated in research? If so, what did you learn from the experience?

I have participated in reaction time research and motor learning experiments for motor behavior. These experiments offered valuable opportunities for learning kinesiology from the perspective of the patient rather than the care provider. This experience was very eye-opening and allowed me to develop a new frame of reference.

Have you completed an internship? If so, where and what did you learn from the experience?

I was very fortunate to have the experience of volunteering with Rock Steady Boxing in Albany and the Adaptive Exercise Clinic on campus. These volunteer opportunities allowed me to have a clearer understanding of not only multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease, but also exercises suited to caring for individuals with these conditions.

I am very thankful to have been able to spend my time and efforts with wonderful groups of people who offered strong connections and resources for me in the exercise medicine community.

Have you received a scholarship? If so, how has it affected your life and your studies?

I have received the Finley Scholarship. It has allowed me to focus on my education first and foremost and has opened doors to educational resources.

What do you think of your experience at OSU/in the college so far? Any stand-out experiences?

As of now, my experience with the College of Health has been a very personal and applicable one. Even as obstacles have presented themselves, the faculty and staff have always been there to offer support and resources that ultimately lead the way to success.

I’ve been very fortunate to have wonderful professors and interactions with other students involved in the College of Health, and I am proud to belong to the community surrounding it.

OSU has offered inclusive and available education to me regarding my education in kinesiology and science.

What are your post-college plans?

After completion of my undergraduate degree this spring, I will be attending a doctor of physical therapy program in Oregon.

I aspire to provide high-quality physical therapy care to individuals in remote and underserved communities in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest region.