Valerie Larson received her Kinesiology BS from the School of Kinesiology in 2019, but she wasn’t finished with her academic goals, or ready to leave the U of M.
“I decided to pursue my MEd degree in Sport and Exercise Science because I loved the courses I took as an undergraduate, and wanted to further expand on my knowledge from my Kinesiology degree,” Larson said.
Larson’s career goal is to get her Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT), and become a practicing PT. She will graduate with her MEd in the spring of 2021, and plans to start PT school at the U of M summer 2021.
“I enjoyed my experience at the University of Minnesota so I wanted to continue to learn more, and the MEd program felt like a good stepping stone before I go on to get my Doctorate,” Larson said.
Larson said her favorite experience as an MEd student so far has been her practicum (KIN 5696). KIN 5696 is a required experience for all MEd students in the School, it offers students opportunities to work in a professional environment under the guidance of working or active professionals. This course acts as a transition step between a student’s education and their professional career. The experience typically offers higher levels of responsibility and allows students to develop professional skills in the field while offering training and supervision. All of this let’s students practically apply their classroom learning.
Larson partnered with University of Minnesota Child Development Center for her practicum.
“I got to work with excellent staff and children who taught me a lot as a professional and individual,” Larson said. “It was so much fun helping 2-3-year-olds grow and develop throughout my practicum experience.”
In addition to her practicum experience, Larson said she’s enjoyed the opportunity to take a wide variety of courses to broaden her skills and knowledge.
“I wasn’t expecting the ability to choose from so many great electives to tailor my MEd program to what I wanted to learn,” Larson said. “I was able to pick courses based on exactly what I was most interested in so I would get the best and most fulfilling experience possible.”
When asked what advice she would give to students considering an MEd program, Larson said:
“I highly recommend this program! The faculty are supportive and the courses offered allow students to personalize their education, so take advantage of the ability to enroll in classes that will be best for your future.”
Good luck on your career journey Valerie, we’re proud to call you an alumni!
