Meet a Physical Education Major

Why did you choose your major? 

At a very young age I realized I had the passion and desire to be a teacher. Specifically I chose physical education because I have always loved playing sports and being physically active.

What has been your favorite class? 

My favorite class so far has been Leisure Sports & Activities and Outdoor Adventures, commonly referred to as May Camp. After freshmen year, each physical education major is required to travel to Camp Slone in Connecticut where we spend two weeks in the rural outdoors learning how to canoe, sail and do a ropes course program. Through this experience I got to meet and work with so many of my peers, and I value the friendships formed as a result of the May Camp experience.

Have you done any internships?

Through this program I have had the opportunity to run for New York State AHPERD (Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance) Student President Elect. I got to attend the state conference and meet other young professionals throughout the state of New York. This was an unbelievable learning experience for me that I am very grateful for.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I hope to attain a graduate assistantship as a softball coach while going to graduate school. I would someday love to be a collegiate softball coach. A graduate assistantship would give me the opportunity to gain experience as a coach while at the same time further my education and enhance my journey to becoming a physical education teacher.

Have any professors particularly influenced you?

Every faculty member I have had has impacted my educational experience at Manhattan College and that is what makes the program so exemplary. The small class sizes have allowed me to develop a positive relationship with all my teachers. Dr. Ladda’s passion and enthusiasm for our profession provides a example for all of our students. Dr. Cherubini has taught me the importance of professionalism, which has already made me an overall better student and person. Dr. Adams brings energy and enthusiasm for physical activities that I had no idea I would learn to love! Dr. Keating inspires us to be young professionals by encouraging students to be in Phi Epsilon Kappa. He holds his students to high academic standards, but at the same time all his students enjoy his classes due to his warm personality and sense of humor. And without Dr. Lienert’s gymnastics class, I would not have had the humbling experience of learning a difficult sport for the first time. It is because of the Manhattan faculty and the program they provide that I feel confident I will be a strong candidate in the future for career opportunities in physical education.

What’s your favorite thing about this major?

My favorite thing about my major is how close all the students become with one another. In addition to May Camp, we work closely together to provide fun and educational experiences to local children through Phi Epsilon Kappa (the physical education honor society). It is a rewarding experience to be part of this major.

What’s the most difficult thing about this major?

For me, the most difficult thing is the challenging curriculum of the science classes. However, the small class sizes, as well as the availability of the faculty have allowed me to be successful academically in this area.

What advice would you give to new students trying to select a major?

Follow your heart and chose a major that you are passionate about. If you have any interest in being a physical education teacher, you should absolutely take advantage of the education our physical education program has to offer.