Naoise O’Reilly is a final-year student of SETU’s Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sports Coaching and Athletic Therapy.
Originally from county Wicklow, Naoise found a home at SETU in Carlow, in which she could couple her love of sport with learning the knowledge and skills required to become an athletic therapist.
Why Sports Rehab?
After completing my Leaving Certificate in 2020, I applied to study the BSc (Hons) in Sports Rehabilitation and Athletic Therapy via the CAO at SETU’s campus in Carlow. I have a sporty background and I’ve always been interested in the work of an athletic therapist. Biology was my favourite subject at school, and I loved the idea of learning and understanding more about the human body. I chose the course at SETU as its content seemed to include a strong overview of the key areas of learning needed to become a sports rehabilitation and athletic therapist specialist.
Making a positive impact
I have always loved working with people and in athletic therapy, I get to be around people in a sports environment, build relationships, and see how I can have a positive impact on patients’ lives.
I’m now entering my final year of the course, and to date, it has been an enjoyable experience that has allowed me to gain so many new skills. Studying and working alongside my classmates, with the support of experienced lecturers, has been hugely beneficial to my development and allows me to feel confident going into my final year and entering clinical practice.
Hands on learning
In terms of the course content, I loved the practical modules on offer. As a very hands-on person, I loved having classes where you can learn through doing. The course has given me the skills to manage the assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of injured clients by offering a unique blend of academic theory, practical workshops, and clinical placements. I’m very much looking forward to bringing together all my learning so far during our final-year clinical placement.
Student support
I felt that staff at SETU always tried to meet our needs as students. I felt I had a close relationship with my lectures, which made the process so much more enjoyable. They were accessible and approachable, and so I could always communicate issues and questions easily.
Sports clubs
I have had a great experience and will always think fondly of my time at SETU in Carlow. For me, the college rugby club has a special place in my heart. It was such an accepting environment and I have such a close bond with all the girls from my team. It really feels like a family.
Hopes for the future
I hope to go on to do a masters in physiotherapy and possibly travel and work abroad. I feel I will leave SETU with a solid foundation having completed my undergraduate studies and I’m excited to see what the future holds.
