Meet our Graduate Students - Michelle Galvan - Never Put Limits on Your Education

Student Profiles: Michelle Galvan

Major: Master of Science in Kinesiology with a Concentration in Exercise Science

What attracted you to the UTEP Department of Kinesiology?
In high school I took an anatomy and physiology course, and was completely fascinated by the muscular and cardiovascular system. During my freshmen orientation here at UTEP, I asked my advisor what majors dealt with either one or both. From the list provided, Kinesiology stood out the most. My dad always said work in a field you love, and that’s exactly what I did.

Why did you decide to continue your education past the undergraduate level and pursue a master’s degree in Kinesiology?
I wanted to provide myself with enough opportunities and open enough doors to not be limited in life. I never want to look back and think I could have fought harder for myself, that no matter what, I did everything I could. Graduate school was a possibility, an opportunity for me, that I could not pass up and I took it.

How has your graduate education in Kinesiology prepared your for your future career?
My graduate program provided me with an in-depth understanding in my field to allow me to think critically and provide the best patient care possible. It has also provided me with hands on experience during my teaching assistantship. The program has allowed me to become a leader, providing me with the knowledge on proper laboratory and clinical techniques needed as a Cardiac Rehab Exercise Physiologist. My thesis project also has taught me how to see the bigger picture, allowing me to strive to contribute to my society using everything I have learned under the Kinesiology master’s program.

What would you tell a prospective student who is thinking about pursuing a graduate degree in Kinesiology?
I would tell them it’s not easy and it’s a lot of hard work, but nothing is impossible. If you truly love the field you are learning about whether it’s biomechanics, strength and conditioning, motor behavior, or exercise physiology, it is well worth it in the end. It can provide you with even more opportunities down the road. Never limit yourself on your education.

For more information about the Masters of Science in Kinesiology Program, please visit:

https://www.utep.edu/chs/kinesiology/academic-programs/graduate/graduate-program.html

Go Miners!