Passing the tape: Athletic training student receives mentorship from AU alumna

During her Athletic Training/Exercise Science 3+2 clinical rotation at Oswego East High School last spring, Khya Phillippe '25, '26 MSAT, gained more than hands-on experience; she received insight from someone who had been in her shoes one year before.

Her supervisor, Tori Agundez '24 MSAT, an Athletico certified athletic trainer on site at OEHS, completed the same program Phillippe is pursuing.

"Working with Tori was great," Phillippe said. "She shared what she learned from her own clinical rotations and gave me a clear understanding of what the process of becoming a certified athletic trainer looks like."

Turning training into experience

During her rotation with Agundez, Phillippe worked directly with athletes, learning how to manage and prioritize treatment and applying techniques she learned in the classroom. This valuable real-world training was enriched by the close support of an alumna who understood the journey.

"Khya is a wonderful student," Agundez said. "Having completed AU's Athletic Training program, I know what she's going through. I remember a great deal about my own clinical rotations and wanted to be honest with her about my experiences. We are continuously growing as individuals in this field and I hope she takes that mindset forward."

The successful partnership came as no surprise to Megan Beard, program director and assistant professor of Athletic Training.

"They're both active listeners. They both humble themselves to not just rush through an evaluation," Beard said. "I think that allowed them to pair well with each other. And, like so many AU students, their confidence grew as they gained experience in the field."

Beard sees that growth in many AU students. The program requires students to complete five immersive clinical rotations, which provide an opportunity to apply classroom learning in a work environment, personalized mentorship, and the confidence and connections that students need for successful careers in athletic training.

Phillippe has advice for students who will follow her path:

"Ask questions, be proactive, and stay open to learning things that go beyond the classroom," offered Phillippe. "And build connections with your preceptors and the athletes you work with - they make the experience more meaningful and help you grow both as a person and a professional."