![Hannah on the field at the UC vs Notre Dame football game](https://www.uc.edu/news/articles/2021/10/n21036820/jcr:content/image.img.cq5dam.thumbnail.500.500.jpg/1633717056237.jpg)
How hands-on learning shaped my education
I became a Bearcat because of hands-on learning experiences like the one I've had in UC Athletics
By: Hannah Schroeder
Major: Health Sciences – Pre-Athletic Training, Sports Medicine Student Manager, UC Athletics
When deciding which university to attend, I chose UC because of all the opportunities that the university can provide to its students. The University of Cincinnati builds real-world experience into its education programs and a big factor for me was the 5-year master’s program for Athletic Training provided through the College of Allied Health Sciences. This program provides classroom, laboratory, and hands-on learning, and I felt that my education would be very valued, allowing me to reach my full potential and grow professionally.
Choosing my major
I always knew I wanted to work in the healthcare field helping others, and the field of athletic training allows me to combine my love for helping people with athletics. I also think that the profession is so dynamic in the sense that I can work in so many different non-traditional settings as an athletic trainer allowing me to find the atmosphere that I thrive in.
My role as a Sports Medicine Student Manager in Athletics
I applied to the sports medicine student manager position as soon as I heard about the program because I could not think of a better opportunity as a pre-athletic training student. I felt that this position would give me the chance to get lots of observation hours under collegiate athletic trainers and receive some financial aid.
My experience in this position has been unreal. I started in the spring of 2021 and this fall (2021) is my second season with the University of Cincinnati Football team. I attended camp this August and that was one of the biggest learning experiences that I have ever had professionally. I am in the athletic training room and at football practices and games about 5-6 days a week assisting the athletic trainers with anything they may need: practice set-up/tear-down and everything in between.
My position allows me to observe the athletic trainers during practice and in the athletic training room, so I get to learn first-hand about different rehab, recovery, and injury prevention methods. The athletic trainers that I work with are the best and love to answer any questions that I may have. I feel that my professional education has benefitted immeasurably through this program.
Preparing me for my future career
This position has shown me that working as a collegiate athletic trainer takes a lot of hard work and dedication, but I wouldn’t have it any other way! This Sports Medicine student manager program has given me a leg up in experience through observation and some aspects of hands-on learning. I plan to continue my role as a sports medicine student manager and work towards my goal of becoming an athletic trainer.
This position has assured me that I’m still passionate about my goal of becoming an athletic trainer working in college athletics.
Hannah Schroeder Health Sciences - Pre-Athletic Training student
Hands-on learning opportunities are embedded throughout all College of Allied Health Science programs. Turn your passion into your future by learning more about our academic programs.
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