When Exercise Scientist Caitlin Keith took on a Flinders work placement providing intensive therapy for children with developmental conditions and brain injuries, little did she know that it would lead to employment.

Caitlin, who has now progressed onto the Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology, is an Accredited Exercise Scientist at The Timmermans Method a family centred private practice clinic.

“After my placement at The Timmermans I was offered a staff position delivering therapy in clients’ homes, before after or in-between intensive therapy with the senior practitioners,” she says.

“Working in neuromuscular rehabilitation, I help improve life skills of children with brain injuries to advance their ability to achieve activities of daily living.

“I apply learning from Flinders every day at work, and often look back through old notes and case studies. I don’t think I will ever stop applying the things I learnt at Flinders.

“Every person I work with is different and each needs a unique approach – rehabilitation is not one size fits all!”

Caitlin was drawn to the Exercise Science undergraduate course for its high calibre teaching staff, small class cohort and postgraduate study opportunities.

“When looking into the course, I was very impressed with the quality of the academic staff and the program. It was clear that the academic staff were highly respected in the field of Exercise Science,” she says.

“All the lecturers are so supportive and choosing a favourite is difficult but the one that stands out for me is Dr Joyce Ramos. She goes above and beyond for her students and I feel privileged to have her to teach me.

“I also enjoyed getting to experience the state-of-the-art equipment, such as the cardiometabolic carts, and practising my skills with volunteer ‘clients’ brought in from exercise science networks such as Cycling Australia.

“I have so many great memories from my studies but one of the best was making such a great group of friends.”

Flinders Exercise Science program also offers a broad range of networking opportunities to build lasting connections for the future.

This includes the SHAPE High performance Program. Through her ties to the program, Caitlin managed to be offered an internship during her Exercise Science degree as a Strength and Conditioning Coach for the SANFLW Premiership team – an experience she describes as “invaluable”.

She sees the field of research and working to uncover exciting new knowledge in her future,

“I would like my findings to relate to everyday people, so small things that can be implemented on a day to day basis help improve quality of life and reduce mortality risk,” she says.

“For the immediate future I am loving my work helping children with brain injuries gain more control over their bodies, I want to delve further into this field when I graduate.”

For more information on studying Exercise Science and Physiology visit the Exercise Science web page, or the Clinical Exercise Physiology web page.