Kaela Newman, Physical Therapy

Kaela NewmanStudent Name: Kaela Newman
Country of Origin: Elora, Ontario, Canada
Pre-MSc/PhD Education: Bachelor of Science with Specialization in Human Kinetics (University of Ottawa)

Recent Research: During my undergraduate degree I began a mini-pilot study at the Ottawa Hospital to examine how accurately nurses were able to predict the load they were lifting during transfers and repositioning, in order to determine whether or not nurses are lifting more than the regulated amount thus placing increased sheer forces through the back ultimately resulting in increased injury and occupational physiotherapy.

Current Research: As part of a second year research group I will be examining the experiences of racism in the context of physical therapy, particularly how participants manage experiences of racism while bringing light to this topic within the profession.

Why faculty of Medicine? Having a passion for improving the quality of life of individuals and a fascination with human anatomy and physiology, I knew that I wanted to pursue a Masters of Physical Therapy under the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Medicine. The University of Toronto’s Faculty of Medicine was an easy choice to make due to its diverse and extensive clinical network with some of the top hospitals, clinics and rehabilitation facilities in the world. The professors in our program are personable, knowledgeable and highly experienced which has made my experience with the Faculty of Medicine most enjoyable. The experience of working in highly reputable teaching facilities with patients of high complexity and unique cases has helped me develop my skills and repertoire of knowledge to become a knowledgeable clinician. 

Future education plans and/or career goals:
Following the completion of my Masters of Physical Therapy I hope to become a licensed physiotherapist specializing in neurorehabilitation, particularly with adults post-stroke and adults with neurodegenerative disorders. The brain and neuroplasticity is something that greatly interests me, and after gaining some experience as a clinician I hope to return to academia to pursue PhD research in order to develop preventative and rehabilitative strategies for brain injury in our society.

Meet Graduate Ambaasador KaelaNewman