When Courtney Voisin was choosing a university program, she knew she was interested in healthcare but wasn't yet certain where that path would lead.
What attracted her to Waterloo's Kinesiology program was the combination of academic excellence, hands-on learning, and the opportunity to gain real-world experience through co-op.
"When I think back to choosing Kinesiology at Waterloo, what first attracted me was the co-op program and the strong academic reputation of the Kinesiology department," Courtney says.
As she researched the program, she learned that Waterloo was the first academic institution in the world to establish a kinesiology department and continues to be recognized for its leadership in human movement research.
She was also drawn to the program's science-based approach and unique learning opportunities, including cadaver anatomy labs, which were not offered by many other kinesiology programs.
"I knew I was interested in healthcare, but wasn't quite sure what that career path looked like for me yet. The co-op program gave me the opportunity to explore different clinical and health-related settings during my studies."
Today, Courtney is a practicing Physiotherapist and Clinical Director at SOS Physiotherapy, helping patients recover from injury, improve mobility, and achieve their health goals.
Building a foundation for graduate studies and healthcare careers
After completing her Kinesiology degree at Waterloo, Courtney went on to earn a Master of Physiotherapy and begin her career in clinical practice.
Looking back, she believes Waterloo prepared her exceptionally well for the academic and professional demands that followed.
"Thanks to my Kin degree at Waterloo, I felt like I was well adapted to handle heavier academic workloads and gained some real-world industry experience during my co-op work term."
The first years of the program challenged students with rigorous science courses that built a strong understanding of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and human movement.
While demanding, that foundation proved invaluable during graduate school.
"I found that my foundational knowledge developed from my Kin coursework and hands-on athletic therapy labs was ahead of many of my peers who came from different undergraduate backgrounds."
Just as importantly, Courtney developed transferable skills that continue to support her work as a healthcare professional every day.
"Learning how to think critically, problem solve and communicate effectively is something I use constantly in practice."
The relationships and professional connections she built through classes, co-op experiences, and extracurricular activities also helped smooth her transition into the workforce.
Learning beyond the classroom
One of Courtney's favourite aspects of the Waterloo's Kinesiology program was the emphasis on hands-on learning.
The program offered opportunities to move beyond textbooks and apply concepts in practical settings through a variety of specialized labs and courses.
"What really stood out to me about the program was the opportunity for hands-on learning," she says.
Experiences such as anatomy labs, biomechanics labs, athletic therapy courses, and injury management training helped bridge the gap between theory and practice.
These learning experiences allowed students to develop practical skills while reinforcing concepts learned in the classroom.
Outside of coursework, Courtney also found numerous ways to get involved on campus.
Students had opportunities to participate in clubs, volunteer roles, and experiential learning opportunities related to health, movement, and patient care, such as:
- student athletic training with varsity sports teams
- campus response team involvement
- health and wellness volunteer opportunities
- clinical and rehabilitation-focused experiences
For Courtney, her co-op positions were particularly influential.
"The co-op work terms were especially impactful for me. They helped confirm that physiotherapy was the right career path for me and gave me valuable clinical exposure early on."
Discovering a career in Physiotherapy
One of the biggest advantages of Waterloo Kinesiology is the ability to explore different healthcare fields before committing to a specific career path.
For Courtney, this exploration helped her discover a passion for physiotherapy and gain confidence in her future direction.
The combination of classroom learning, practical experience, and co-op allowed her to understand both the science behind human movement and the realities of working in healthcare settings.
That experience ultimately gave her clarity about her professional goals and prepared her for the next step of earning a Master of Physiotherapy.
Today, she works directly with patients and leads a clinical team, applying knowledge and skills that began developing during her undergraduate studies.
Why students should consider Waterloo Kinesiology
When speaking to Grade 11 and 12 students, Courtney wants them to understand that Kinesiology is much more than sports and fitness.
"For high school students considering Kinesiology, I would say this: Kinesiology is an incredible opportunity that can open the door to so many meaningful career paths in healthcare and beyond."
The program is ideal for students who are curious about the human body, enjoy science, and want to make a positive impact on people's lives.
Waterloo Kinesiology provides a strong scientific foundation while creating pathways into a wide range of careers and professional programs, including:
- Physiotherapy
- Medicine
- Occupational therapy
- Athletic therapy
- Rehabilitation sciences
- Research
- Strength and conditioning
- Health and wellness leadership
"The program is science-based and rigorous, but it opens so many doors," Courtney says.
Her advice is simple: take advantage of every opportunity available.
"Make the most of the hands-on learning, co-op experiences, volunteer opportunities, and chances to explore different settings. They can help you discover your path and build the confidence and skills you'll carry into your future profession."
A degree that opens doors
Courtney's journey demonstrates the value of a Waterloo Kinesiology education for students who are passionate about health, movement, and helping others.
From challenging science courses and world-class anatomy labs to meaningful co-op opportunities and professional connections, the program provided the foundation she needed to succeed in graduate school and build a rewarding healthcare career.
For students wondering where a Kinesiology degree can take them, Courtney's story is a reminder that the possibilities extend far beyond the classroom and can lead to impactful careers improving the health and well-being of others every day.
Next steps
- Learn how co-op can help you explore career paths and gain work experience.
- Take our quiz to find the Health program that's right for you.
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