SLU AT Student Engaged in Patient Care at St. John Vianney High School

By: Jacob Kidwell (MAT Class of 2025)

    My name is Jacob Kidwell and my clinical site for the fall semester is St. John Vianney High School. At Vianney, I have been working alongside Tim Trupiano in my first rotation of clinicals. One of my favorite things about being at Vianney is the learning environment. Tim has challenged me to think differently and is allowing me to use the skills I am learning in the classroom to further myself in a professional environment. One of my other favorite things is the faculty/staff that I am around. They are thrilled to have an extra set of eyes and hands helping the athletes, and I am sure Tim is happy too. 

    One thing I have experienced at Vianney is the management of an athlete with a dislocated shoulder. He was in immense pain and very uncormfortable. My role in the situation was to help keep the athlete calm alert and responsive while Tim attempted to reduce the athlete’s shoulder. As the shoulder was not goin to reduce on-site we activated the emergency action plan and called EMS. 

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student Share Collaborative Clinical Experience at Washington University St. Louis

By: I-Chen (Hugo) Lee (MAT Class of 2024), Nia Collion (MAT Class of 2024), and Madison Wriborg (MAT Class of 2025)

This marks my second clinical experience in college, and my time at WASHU (Washington University in St. Louis) has been an entirely unique and enriching journey. WASHU students stand out for their exceptional intelligence, and this becomes apparent in their interactions with faculty members. In comparison to high school students, WASHU students often have a clear understanding of the assistance they require when seeking support. Even when they are uncertain, they exhibit a strong willingness to learn and possess the ability to grasp concepts rapidly. This dynamic contributes to a seamless and efficient communication process. I am grateful for the opportunity to get to know these academically accomplished students. 

- I-Chen (Hugo) Lee

This fall I have had the privilege of completing my first clinical experience with the SLU AT program at Washington University in Saint Louis assisting athletes under the guidance of many preceptors. WashU has become a huge stepping stone within my academic career, as the school has many resources available to grow and develop my knowledge. As a first year student there are many new and exciting things to see and learn and WashU gave me those opportunities. My time at WashU has taught me that it is important to challenge yourself and be open to new ways of thinking and treating. Because I had the opportunity to work under different preceptors I saw how everyone treated and attended to athletes differently and in their own way. I have slowly started to find my way of treating athletes and believe that after these next few semesters I will feel confident the same way the WashU Athletic Training team shows confidence! 

- Madison Wriborg

This fall I have had the opportunity to complete my fall clinical field experience with Washington University in Saint Louis under the guidance of a multitude of preceptors. The preceptor that I have the most contact with is Angie Tejada as she is the main athletic trainer of the football team at WashU. WashU offers a great collegiate athletics experience, and while assisting with mainly the football team I have had some opportunities to practice my developing skills with other sports. WashU has shown me the value of interprofessional collaboration whether that be collaboration between the athletic trainer and the various doctors that assist the sports medicine program or the collaboration between the ATs themselves. One of the things I have valued most while helping out at WashU is gaining the trust of not only the athletic trainers but the athletes as well; I see the same athletes everyday and watching their trust in me and my abilities to assist them in any needs and respect what I can do for them has been truly meaningful to me. Throughout the remainder of the semester I hope to continue to grow my clinical knowledge and build confidence in my skills before being sent to the real world on my own. 

- Nia Callion

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student Gains Clinical Experience with Bears Soccer Programs

By: Krystal Kohenskey (MAT Class of 2025)

    My clinical site for the fall is WashU. At WashU, I am gaining clinical experience with both the men’s and women’s soccer teams. I have had an amazing experience with these teams and really enjoy working with these teams and my preceptors, Sam and Chris. My preceptors have allowed me freedom to grow into my role and who I want to be as an athletic trainer. Working under two preceptors has taught me a lot. Each one has a different way of approaching things and using different methods. Being able to see those different perspectives has allowed me to figure out what works best for me and begin to apply them to my own practice. So far this semester I have been able to learn hands-on practices, like cupping and active release, while also being put in experiences with serious injuries and situations, like elbow dislocations and eating disorders, and seeing how they are handled. I am really happy with how much I have been able to learn so far and can not wait to see what else I learn this semester. 

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU Athletic Training Student Experiences Life as a High School Athletic Trainer

By: Jeremy Gries (MAT Class of 2025)

    My clinical assignment at De Smet Jesuit High School has been a positive learning experience. At De Smet, I am able to practice many of the skills that I am learning in the classroom, such as wound care, modalities, taping, and manual therapy. I also assist my preceptor, Alex Brody ATC, with injury evaluations and rehabilitation. I've enjoyed building strong bonds with the athletes I work with daily. These connections are what make athletic training so special for me. My time at De Smet has positively impacted my growth as a professional in this field.

    This experience taught me how vital it is to make decisions on the spot, think on your feet, and juggle multiple tasks as an athletic trainer. These abilities aren't typically taught in the classroom but are honed through real-world practice in a clinical setting. I'm thankful to De Smet Jesuit and the SLU AT Program for allowing me to sharpen these skills in this setting.

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU Athletic Training Student Gain Clinical Experience with Two Program Alumni

By: Tori Connelly (MAT Class of 2025)

    This Fall I have finally started the long awaited clinical journey at Pattonville High School. In the few months I have been here I have learned so much from my Preceptors Alex Hubbs MAT, ATC and Emily Haley MAT, ATC, both who are SLU AT Program alums. 

    Pattonville High School has many Fall sports going on making it a very busy after school AT room. Both Alex and Emily have quickly pushed me out of my comfort zone to help with evals, and taping. Despite it being busy they always go into great detail about the evals they complete so I can ask more questions and be prepared to do it in the future. It's always an interesting and “keep you on your toes day” at Pattonville and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. 

    Not only has this site been great for early hands-on learning, it has been an extremely welcoming and fun site not just from my preceptors but from all of the student-athletes, coaches, AD, and additional staff. This was truly the best place for me to start my clinical experience and I can only imagine how much I will continue to learn this semester.

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU Athletic Training Students Return to Their High School for Clinical Experience

By: Olivia Hiscox & Kris Koenig ( MAT Class of 2025)

    Kris Koenig and Olivia Hiscox, PY1s, have been placed at Kirkwood High School this fall with Kelsey Cunningham, an ATC with Athletico. Our experiences at Kirkwood High School have been engaging, insightful, and entertaining. Having Clinicals at a high school has allowed us to understand the dynamics between trainers and high school athletes and recognize the chaotic nature of fall sports and scheduling. Kelsey has been very welcoming and allowed us to ease into the swing of things. As we developed more confidence and competence in the training room, she would give us more autonomy to do certain assessments and modalities which gave us a more realistic insight into what it is like to be an AT. 

    We feel most appreciative and proud of being an AT student when we are on the sidelines during games, celebrating with the team, and being there for athletes when they get injured. The feeling that you get when you are on the field and seeing the student-athlete that you have been helping competing and succeeding is unmatched. We could not be more grateful for our time together with Kelsey and Kirkwood High School athletes and all they have been able to teach us. We cannot wait to see what else Kelsey and KHS have in store for us for the rest of our first semester experiencing clinical hours. 

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student gains amazing immersive clinical experience with the Gateway Grizzlies

By Yu-Heng Hu (MAT Class of 2024)

My summer experience with the Gateway Grizzlies has been an extraordinary and unparalleled opportunity, undoubtedly the coolest I have ever had. Working alongside my experienced and dedicated preceptor, Geof Manzo, who boasts an impressive fifteen-year tenure with the Grizzlies, has been nothing short of inspiring.

Each day, from 2 o'clock in the afternoon until 6:45pm, I found myself immersed in a world of learning and skill development. Manzo's guidance and support not only allowed me numerous opportunities to practice and refine my scraping, cupping, and massage techniques but also provided me with invaluable insights into the world of athletic training.

I cannot express enough gratitude to both my preceptor and the esteemed SLU athletic training program for bestowing upon me this incredibly valuable experience. This opportunity has not only broadened my knowledge and skill set but has also ignited a deep passion within me for sports medicine and athletic training. As I move forward in my career, I am confident that the lessons and experiences from this summer will remain an integral part of my journey toward becoming a skilled and compassionate healthcare professional.

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student gains immersive clinical experience with Bluetail Medical Group

By Julia Martinez (MAT Class of 2024)

My experience at Bluetail has been remarkable. I’ve been watching Dr. Bayes and his PA, Paige Rakers, treat patients and perform medical diagnosis and various innovative medical procedures. This includes performing tests, reviewing X-ray and MRI images, using an ultrasound, and performing treatments, such as injections. I am rooming patients that involves getting their vitals, asking history questions, and performing any tests I need to test for the injury. I have also learned how to operate an ultrasound and assist in any treatments. 

This has helped my professional development because I’ve been able to use what I’ve learned and apply it in a clinic setting that has different age groups. I really love learning from Dr. Bayes and Paige. They are very helpful as well as the medical assistants that work there. I’m thankful they treat me like I’m one of them and they are all great teachers! I’m really enjoying my time at Bluetail. 

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student has amazing immersive clinical experience with SLU

By I-Chen Lee (MAT Class of 2024)

Learning alongside our preceptor, Johnathan Burch, at the Saint Louis University men's basketball team has been an invaluable and collaborative experience for us as AT students. The collegiate setting has been appealing and eye-opening to the unique challenges and opportunities that come with caring for elite athletes. The dynamic nature of the team environment has been both thrilling and demanding, pushing us to grow both personally and professionally. We have appreciated the mental challenges we face on a day-to-day basis, always having to utilize problem-solving and critical thinking skills to achieve each unique goal. 

JB has played a pivotal role in shaping our clinical experience. His exceptional organizational skills have established a clear framework for our work, ensuring that we maintain a high standard of care. Moreover, he possesses a true teaching spirit, always encouraging us to approach our tasks with strong and well-reasoned perspectives. This approach has fostered critical thinking and a deepened understanding of the athletic training profession. We greatly appreciate JB and his staff as well as the SLU Men’s Basketball family for providing us with the best possible environment for growing and developing our clinical skillsets in preparation for our last year of program. 

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student experiences diverse clinical opportunities at multiple clinical sites

By Brandon Pavon (MAT Class of 2024)

This summer I started my summer clinical rotation learning with Dan Herrin at Mercy Center for Performance Medicine as well as Marquette High school learning with Jessi Austin. Following the first couple of weeks I transitioned over to having experience with Elena Melillo and the SLU women's basketball team instead of Marquette High school. I am spending time alongside another athletic training student from Missouri State university while being at Mercy Center for Performance Medicine and alone with Elena at SLU. 

While spending time with Dan Herrin, I have gained experience in the clinical setting broadening my knowledge as to the realm of athletic training. While spending time with Elena at SLU I have gained more experience in the D1 setting with a different sport growing my knowledge in the world of athletic training, giving me new experiences to help find the best fit for me in the long run. I am beyond grateful for the privileges that have been given to me to help me grow as a future athletic trainer in order to help as many patients as I can as I come across a wide variety of patients over the following years.

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student has amazing immersive clinical experience with Columbus Crew

By Grace Golembiewski (MAT Class of 2024)

This summer I had the opportunity to complete my clinical field experience with the Columbus Crew in Columbus, OH, under the guidance of my preceptor, Head Athletic Trainer, Chris Rumsey, MS, LAT, ATC. This unique experience has greatly improved my professional development in a variety of ways. For instance, I have learned the value of interprofessional healthcare collaboration due to the extensive sports performance and medical staff that ensures the safety, care, and physical and mental well-being of every athlete.

In addition, I have discovered a wide range of therapeutic modalities that complement my previous knowledge about therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation including new manual therapy techniques, shockwave, microcurrent, CareWear, etc. Overall, I am extremely grateful for the remarkable opportunity to learn from the entire sports performance and medical staff at the Columbus Crew, and I am excited to continue expanding my professional skills and knowledge throughout the summer semester.

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student gains hands-on experience with Mississippi State University's football team

By Claire Love (MAT Class of 2024)

This summer I have been given the incredible opportunity to complete field experience with SEC west powerhouse Mississippi State University's Football Team. In just a short time here I have grown tremendously. I have had the opportunity to use new modalities such as Laser, Winback and hivamat. I have the opportunity to challenge athletes during rehabs by using machines such as the kineo, BFR, and hydroworx treadmill. But more than having the opportunity to use the newest and coolest modalities I have gotten to learn from my incredible preceptor Jake Goluszka, M.S., LAT, ATC and the entire MSU football athletic training staff. Everyday I truly get to see a collaborative team approach to athlete centered healthcare. Whether it is how can we challenge this person more during a rehab session? Or needing another set of hands and eyes doing an evaluation, our staff is completely bought to get the athletes back to 100%. And this is something that I have noticed not only in our athletic training staff, but our team doctors, our nutritionist, and strength and conditioning staff. It is truly a team effort and I am so lucky to be a part of it. 

Being in such a high profile and high paced environment has helped me to gain confidence in my clinical decision making and clinical reasoning skills while also challenging me to be more innovative and more creative with the vast amount of resources I have available. It is forcing me to always be ready and focus on the things that are most important. I have truly loved my time here in Starkville and I am excited to watch my skills and confidence continue to grow. 

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student has incredible experience with Racing Louisville FC

By Caroline Miller (MAT Class of 2024)

For my summer field experience I got the incredible opportunity to grow my clinical skills with Racing Louisville FC. My time with the club the past few weeks has been nothing but a positive experience. I get to collaborate with my preceptor Tara Condon and assistant athletic trainer Izzy Clarke to provide the best care possible, but have also got to meet other amazing staff that have also been a huge part of improving my clinical skills.

This experience has helped grow my professional skills in numerous ways, from patient care to running an athletic training room. Skills I specifically struggled to pick up in class, I have been able to better understand and integrate into treatment plans for our athletes. I have also been able to get a glimpse of the aspects it takes to run an athletic training facility and what it is like being able to care for such a high level of athlete. My time with Racing Louisville has not been long, but I am looking forward to the next 6 weeks. I am forever grateful for being given the opportunity to complete my summer field experience here and have experiences that I will never forget. A huge thank you to the staff of Racing Louisville and the SLU athletic training department for making this amazing experience come to fruition.

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student has amazing field experience with MLS club, Sporting Kansas City

By Justin Epperly (MAT Class of 2024)

This summer I have had the opportunity to support the MLS club Sporting Kansas City. I

spend my time with Eric Schawrtz MAT, LAT, ATC helping with rehab programs, training, and

game day setup and breakdown. I also support the Sporting’s second team with Rene

Arroyo-Cano MAT, LAT, ATC where I help with pre and post game treatment, training, and

game day operations. While there are no other SLU students with me, there are two athletic

training interns who are alongside me, both of which are also between their first and second year

of their program.

There is also an athletic training fellow who supports the first and second team.

During a typical day the athletic training staff will prepare waters and body armor for the team

before training and then do pre-training treatment on any of the athletes which ranges from ankle

and lower extremity taping to light flush massages and assisting in stretching. During training we

are there to keep the players hydrated and watch for injuries. Post training we do treatment on

any players who require it which is where I have had the chance to use new modalities such as

the Hivamat and Avazzia. Sporting Kansas City is partnered with the healthcare system

Children's Mercy Health.

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student engages in immersive field experience with Purdue University football team

By Marissa Uecker (MAT Class of 2024)

My summer field experience with the Purdue University football team has been a great learning opportunity. I am practicing many skills learned in the classroom including modality treatments, injury evaluations, taping, and manual therapy. I have also learned several new skills such as developing plans of care, using advanced therapeutic modalities like Hivamat, and applications for vision training with Senaptec strobe glasses.

My latest clinical experience has significantly impacted my professional development. I have been able to practice and refine previously learned skills, put new tools in my toolbox, and build my confidence. My preceptor, Alyse King, and the Purdue Sports Medicine staff have created a positive learning environment in which I can be creative and excel. I am grateful to Purdue University and the SLU AT Program for providing this professional development opportunity.

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student has Immersive Experience at Southern Methodist University

By Mark Romeo (MAT Class of 2024)

I have had the pleasure to gain clinical experience at Southern Methodist University in Dallas Texas under the supervision of Ian Chennell. My time has primarily been the SMU football team during their summer workouts. This experience has been great because the staff in the athletic training department are eager to teach and allow me to grow as a student by providing as much hands-on experience as possible and pushing me to learn something new every day.

This site has also been great because it has allowed me to develop interprofessional skills with the full time athletic trainers, the intern athletic trainers, sports performance coaches, and another student. This experience has exposed me to new modalities, new rehabilitation techniques, and how a large staff collaborates to ensure that the athletes are safely competing at their highest potential. I would like to thank the SMU sports medicine staff for allowing me to gain experience this summer as well as for showing me their commitment to the care they provide for their athletes!

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student participates in hands-on patient care in high school setting

By Alex Davis (MAT Class of 2023)

This semester, I returned back at Alton High School learning more from Andy Renner.  So far, we have been covering basketball and wrestling, helping athletes through their rehab, and I have been studying for the BOC exam.  This has been a great experience having Andy as one of my mentors.  He is a great teacher and a great athletic trainer that does not get many SLU students due to the distance between the school and campus.  These past few weeks have been exciting watching the girls’ basketball team work their way to sectionals and being able to help with the MVC tournament at Enterprise center last week with fellow SLU students.  

This experience has helped me become better at all my skills as a future AT and it has been great getting to experience this with Andy.  It is awesome getting to learn about how he came into the profession, and it is also a great to be with someone that is apart of an organization that I will so become a part of (IATA vice president).  He has helped me study for the BOC exam and helped me understand what I need to do for licensure and gave me suggestions on where to get my continuing education credits after I graduate.

This has been a wonderful school year getting to learn from Andy and being with the athletes at   Alton High School

This is one of a series of posts authored by students enrolled in the Saint Louis University Athletic Training Program. The number of clinical sites, the quality and diversity of the clinical experience opportunities, and the contemporary expertise of our preceptors are strengths of the CAATE Accredited SLU AT Program.

SLU AT Student gains clinical experience with D1 athletic programs

By: Alex Smith (MAT Class of 2023)

My name is Alex Smith, and I am a PY2 in the athletic training curriculum. My clinical site is at Saint Louis University. I am fortunate enough to collaborate alongside the preceptors in the athletic training facility at a division I collegiate level. My preceptor for this clinical experience is Elena Mellilo, ATC. 

I am fortunate to participate in athletic training duties with my preceptor that covers cross country, track and field, and women’s basketball. Each day, I am able to assist with therapeutic treatments on the patients, monitor practice, and then provide recovery regimens after. The experience has been nothing but exciting. New injuries that I have gotten little exposure of or have even seen have occurred while at my site. This experience has also helped me build my professional development as I can understand how to manage a division I level collegiate team. I obviously am thankful for all the patients that I have worked with and have understood my role. And a special gratitude to my preceptor, Elena, for giving me the opportunities to grow as a future athletic trainer.