It's not often that students earn graduate credit for teaching someone how to slackline, but in the Master of Exercise Science Program at ÃÛÌÒapp, Brandon VanOphem did just that.

"My most memorable project was for Dr. Kerrie Berends' class, Motor Learning, where I taught my significant other how to slackline. It was a fun way to apply what I was learning in class. This experience reinforced the key concepts of motor learning and boosted my confidence in applying principles effectively in real-life situations."

In ÃÛÌÒapp's Master of Exercise Science program, students gain hands-on experience through practical projects and an externship. As Brandon shared, "The combination of coursework and the hands-on project—where we were tasked with teaching someone a new skill—was an incredibly effective way to understand the principles of motor learning."

Brandon completed his undergraduate degree with the goal of continuing his education to become a physical therapist. ÃÛÌÒapp's Master of Science in Exercise Science program bolstered his application to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs and provided him with a solid foundation to approach rehab with confidence and innovation.Ìý

Now a DPT student at Andrews University, VanOphem's interest in teaching led to an opportunity to serve as an adjunct professor. In this role, he helped build a collaborative relationship between the university’s athletics and physical therapy departments, attending games, teaching techniques like taping and injury prevention, and providing care to injured athletes at high-profile events such as the Newmyer Classic basketball tournament and AcroFest gymnastics events.Ìý

His experience has been rich. "I also tutored students in the two classes and completed all six Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy (OMPT) courses through ASPIRE and plan to sit for the certification exam. Most humbling of all, I was honored to receive the 2024 APTA Michigan Outstanding Student of the Year award—a recognition that reflects the hard work, passion, and commitment this program has helped cultivate in me."

Brandon chose the Master of Exercise Program at ÃÛÌÒapp to broaden his understanding and deepen his expertise related to movement and health. "This program not only helped me gain admission into PT school but also significantly enhanced my knowledge of exercise programming and creativity. It equipped me with the skills to design effective and engaging rehabilitation routines, making them both enjoyable and easier for patients to follow."

Offered fully online, ÃÛÌÒapp's Master of Exercise Program is accessible to students from anywhere in the world. "My experience in the program was nothing short of exceptional. Despite the online format, I consistently felt supported by both the faculty and my peers. The sense of community and collaboration made a significant impact, allowing all of us to thrive and succeed together throughout the program."

Learn more at calvin.edu/majors-programs/ms-exercise-science and contact program direct Dr. Kerrie Berends with questions, kerrie.berends@calvin.edu.

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