Master of Physiotherapy students reflect on first semester in new program

Students from the first cohort of RMIT’s Master of Physiotherapy share the fun and heartfelt experiences that have stood out to them so far.

Khushi Joshi will never forget the first patient she treated while on placement as part of RMIT’s Master of Physiotherapy, a new program that launched in July this year.

“I was nervous going into it, but the patient was so kind and open, making me feel at ease,” said Khushi.

“By the end of the session, I was thrilled to see them making progress. Seeing first-hand the positive impact I could have on someone’s recovery solidified my passion for physiotherapy.”

Khushi has always had an interest in helping people through healthcare.

While volunteering at a hospital during her undergraduate studies, something clicked into place when Khushi observed how the physiotherapists were so integral to patient rehabilitation.

“I saw the transformative role physiotherapists play in a person’s recovery and wellbeing, and it resonated deeply with me,” said Khushi.

Pursuing my masters at RMIT seemed like a natural progression that aligned with both my passion for health and my desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

Like Khushi, Jordan Halaseh’s journey to studying physiotherapy was inspired by a motivation to help others, in addition to his personal experience with physiotherapy treatments over the years.

“Physiotherapy has been incredibly beneficial for me as a patient,” said Jordan.

“I'm someone who used to be injured every second week, and with the guidance of physiotherapy I was able to strengthen and understand my body and its functionality to better support my active lifestyle.”

Friendships, frisbee, and fostering the future of physiotherapy education

Being part of the first cohort of the new masters program has proven to be a great bonding experience for Khushi, Jordan and the other students, who regularly get together outside of class for fun activities like a game of frisbee.

“Since we’re a small cohort, I’ve made some incredibly close friends who will stay with me not only throughout the course but throughout my career,” said Jordan.

“There’s a sense of camaraderie among us, knowing we’re all in this together, building something new,” said Khushi.

Dr Adrian Pranata, Program Manager and Senior Lecturer in Physiotherapy in the STEM College, said the newness of the program also gives educators a unique opportunity to work with students to tailor the content to their needs.

“We designed this program in collaboration with industry to ensure our students are being equipped with contemporary skills that effectively address current industry needs,” said Adrian.

“The students are enthusiastic about providing their feedback on what is working for them and what they hope to explore further in the future. Their feedback is highly valuable for us, and their engagement with the program is inspiring to see.”

Khushi said she enjoys having this collegial relationship with her teachers.

“It feels like we’re shaping the future of physiotherapy education at RMIT,” she said.

Real-world learning gives students a leg up

The students are based at RMIT’s Bundoora campus where they have access to purpose-built health labs, the use of which is key to developing students’ clinical skills said Adrian.

“Our state-of-the-art facilities, such as our advanced simulation laboratories, and equipment enable students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, preparing them for successful future careers.”

Not only do the facilities support students’ technical capabilities, but according to Jordan, they’re also really exciting to use.

“The facilities are incredible. We are getting access to equipment some workplaces don’t even have access to yet,” said Jordan.

“The lab rooms and access to really cool machines are great and really add to the enjoyment of the course!”

Another component of the program that is getting students job-ready is the touchpoints with industry, which see students jump straight into placement from their first semester.

Khushi has learned a lot from placement so far and knows that the people and connections she is making will shape the physiotherapist she becomes.

“Working closely with industry professionals has been a fantastic learning experience. It’s preparing me for the fast-paced and varied nature of clinical practice,” said Khushi.

Find out more about RMIT’s Master of Physiotherapy

04 November 2024

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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