Hands-On Learning Shaped Senior’s Future in Exercise Science

Hands-On Learning Shaped Senior's Future in Exercise Science

When Sarah Staudt first stepped onto The University of Toledo campus, she wasn't sure where her academic journey would take her - but she knew she wanted to find a path that combined passion with purpose.

A native of Akron, Staudt was introduced to UToledo through family and friends who had walked the University's halls and encouraged her to consider the opportunities here. What began as an exciting new adventure quickly turned into a professional calling.

"I was encouraged by the versatility of the major even though I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do at the time," said Staudt, reflecting on her transition into exercise science and, ultimately, the Human Performance and Fitness Promotion (HPFP) program. Courses like strength and endurance conditioning, cardiac dysrhythmias and the hands-on clinical internship cemented her decision to pursue this area of study.

A major influence during her academic career has been Andrew Misko, HPFP internship coordinator and an associate lecturer. Staudt credits him with shaping her educational experience through meaningful classroom engagement and intentional preparation for real-world work.

"Professor Misko encourages students to apply information to real-world scenarios," she said. "As our internship coordinator, he helps facilitate clinical experiences that align with our future career goals. I've grown professionally and personally through those experiences."

Staudt's commitment to health and community has extended well beyond the classroom. She became involved with the Healthy Athletes program early in her sophomore year after a friend encouraged her to volunteer. What started as a weekly commitment became a highlight of her semester schedule. She enjoyed not only exercising alongside the program's participants but also helping them support and motivate one another.

"Sarah has unselfishly given her time and effort volunteering with our Healthy Athletes program for two semesters before it was required as part of her internship," Misko said. "She sets the bar for all interns with her enthusiastic dedication and commitment to the tasks she performs."

Today, Staudt serves as an intern in Healthy Athletes, taking on leadership roles in planning and guiding sessions with participants. This work opened doors to another valuable experience, an internship with The Ability Center of Greater Toledo. There, she is learning about the independent living department's mission through community events intended to foster social and vocational skills.

Staudt also completed a clinical internship in the cardiac rehabilitation program at Flower Hospital, where she worked directly with patients from diverse backgrounds and helped answer their questions about health and exercise. The experience reinforced her interest in patient education and preventative health.

"Education is a powerful tool," Staudt said. "I'm grateful I had the opportunity to share that with others."

Balancing academics, internships and community involvement has been a challenge Staudt has learned to navigate with intention and presence. Rather than rushing through commitments, she focuses on being fully engaged in each experience, a mindset that has helped her grow and find joy in the journey.

Looking ahead, Staudt envisions a career as an exercise physiologist, particularly in cardiac rehabilitation or stress testing. Her work with older adults has helped define where she wants to make an impact in the future.

For students considering a similar path, Staudt advises openness and curiosity.

"Exercise science and allied health fields offer a broad range of opportunities," she said. "Entering this field without a blueprint doesn't mean it isn't the right path for you. The classes and clinical opportunities help you explore options you may not have known existed."

As she prepares to graduate in May, Staudt reflected on the professors, classmates and friends who have supported her.

"I wouldn't be where I am today without everyone I had by my side," she said.