Getting to Know You: Ali Thurston
Ali Thurston — Kinesiology, Pre-Physician Assistant
Minor: Spanish
Hometown: Lake Tapps, WA
Year: Sophomore
What inspired you to pursue a degree in kinesiology?
My high school had a sports medicine program. I always played sports so I thought it would be fun to try out the program and learn the scientific aspect of injury and exercise. Because of this, I took the anatomy and sports medicine courses offered. I had never enjoyed any classes and actually enjoyed learning about anything as much as I loved learning about the human body and exercise. I could listen to my teacher talk for hours, and this is when I decided this is what I would like to learn about for the rest of my academic career.
Who, or what, influenced your decision to pursue this degree?
Along with my already strong interest in exercise and the human body at this point, my senior year of high school I ruptured my achilles tendon playing basketball. Although this was extremely painful and heartbreaking, I got a lot of joy out of talking about the injury, how to rehab it, and what exactly happened to my body with my sports medicine teacher, athletic trainer, and physical therapist. The time was physically and emotionally very tough and made me realize that I wanted to help people that had gone through the same type of thing that I had. Kinesiology was not only the best match to help me toward my future goals, but also the most intriguing to me.
What appeals to you most in this field?
I am absolutely fascinated with exercise and the benefits it has on the human body. The emphasis that every professor puts on living a healthy, active lifestyle and fitness is great to me because that is very important to me as well.
What do you hope to get out of your career?
From my career I hope for my passion for people and health to grow, and I hope to gain the rewarding experiences that come with being a medical provider. I can’t wait to begin making a difference in others’ lives.
Do you have any advice for incoming freshman pursuing this degree?
The only advice I have is to work hard and get involved. I think you will get out of this degree what you put into it, so if you get involved in Kines club, research, or become a TA, or get involved in other ways, you will gain a lot more experience and knowledge to use in your future career than someone who only attended class and did the bare minimum.
What, or who, motivates you as a student?
As a student, my parents motivate me the most. I am so thankful for them raising me into who I am today and for giving me the opportunity to further my education.
Favorites:
- Class: Anatomy
- Professor: Dr. Morgan
- Sport: Basketball
- TV Show: The Office
- Food: Ice Cream
- Pullman Restaurant: Southfork