Tina Ko – MPT Graduation 2025

What inspired you to pursue the Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) degree at UBC?

I’ve always been drawn to understanding why the human body behaves the way it does—how its systems interact, adapt, and compensate. Movement has been a constant in my life; I grew up swimming, eventually became an Aquatics Supervisor, and I love hiking and camping around Vancouver. These experiences gave me a deep appreciation for how the body moves and adapts in different environments.

After completing my Bachelor’s in Kinesiology at UBC, the Master of Physical Therapy program felt like a natural next step. I wanted a program that blended strong academics, evidence-informed practice, and hands-on clinical experience, and UBC offered exactly that.

My time working as a Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant further solidified my desire to become a physiotherapist. Helping people move with less pain and regain confidence in their daily activities showed me just how meaningful and impactful this profession can be. As a lifelong learner, I’m inspired by the constantly evolving research in rehabilitation sciences and the opportunity physiotherapy provides to apply evidence-informed care while continuing to grow.

Together, these experiences shaped my decision to pursue a career that supports people throughout their rehabilitation journeys.

How was your experience in the MPT program?

The program was intense, eye-opening, and full of growth. I learned that physiotherapy isn’t just about anatomy or techniques; it’s about communication, critical thinking, and adapting in fast-changing situations. Some weeks feel overwhelming, but you also realize you’re surrounded by classmates and instructors who truly want you to succeed. I really appreciated the variety of topics we covered throughout the program, which helped me understand how diverse the field of physiotherapy truly is. The cadaver lab was a grounding experience—it brought the anatomy we learned in lectures to life in a powerful way. Courses like pain neuroscience education and vestibular rehabilitation also stood out to me, challenging my thinking and sparking new areas of interest.

Additionally, my five clinical placements—spanning MSK, vestibular, ICU, emergency, medicine, acute spine, outpatient neurology, and outpatient geriatrics—deepened my learning by bringing classroom theory into real-world practice. The combination of academic challenges, diverse coursework, and hands-on clinical experience shaped me into a more resilient and well-rounded clinician.

What do you want to tell new physical therapy students about what they can expect during the program?

Expect the program to challenge you, shape you, and surprise you. Academically, it’s fast-paced and dense—you’ll move through anatomy, physiology, pathology, cardiorespiratory, and neurology in what feels like the blink of an eye. The UBC program is also strongly research-based, which means you’re constantly learning to integrate current evidence into your clinical reasoning and everyday decision-making. You won’t understand everything at once (no one does), but over time you’ll see your knowledge and confidence deepen in ways you didn’t expect.

Here’s what I want new students to know:

• You will grow more than you expect. Concepts that feel impossible at first will click with repetition and practice.

• Your classmates will become your team. Lean on them, learn from them, and know that some will become lifelong friends.

• You’ll develop as a person as much as you do as a clinician. Self-awareness, resilience, and communication matter just as much as technical skills.

• Clinical placements will change you. They teach you how to blend evidence, communication, and empathy in real time.

• Balance matters. The first 2 semesters can feel like a marathon—rest, ask for help, and give yourself grace.

• Stay curious. The more questions you ask, the richer your learning becomes.

The program is demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. You’ll graduate with a stronger mind, steadier hands, and a clearer sense of the kind of physiotherapist you want to become. And along the way, you’ll create memories, friendships, and moments of growth that stay with you long after graduation.

How did you enjoy the community(s) you visited while on placement?

My Level 2A placement at Qualicum Beach was one of the most meaningful experiences of my training. It was more than a placement—it felt like a six-week reset. The slower pace of island life let me learn deeply, connect with the community, and appreciate the calmness of the environment. Outside of clinic hours, I spent time exploring beaches, going on nature walks, and enjoying the natural beauty of Vancouver Island.

The senior community at Qualicum Beach was particularly warm and welcoming. Working with them taught me patience, clearer communication, and the importance of meeting people where they are. My placement included time at Qualicum Beach Physiotherapy Clinic, hydrotherapy at Ravensong Aquatic Centre, and work in long-term care at Arrowsmith. My preceptor, Cory Pahl, created a supportive space where I felt valued and encouraged to grow. The combination of a kind community, a strong clinical team, and the support of my best friend, Rhonda, made Qualicum Beach one of the most grounding and memorable chapters of my training.

Where are you hoping the MPT program takes you? What’s next?

I’m excited to begin my career at Launch Rehab in New Westminster and in the Emergency Department at Burnaby Hospital. In the near term, my goals are to gain experience, refine my assessment and treatment skills, and learn from clinicians who challenge me to think critically. I’m also wrapping up my Cochrane systematic review with Dr. Marie Westby at the Centre of Aging SMART, examining the effects of post-acute physiotherapy on pain, function, and health-related quality of life after primary total knee arthroplasty.

Longer term, I hope to build a practice grounded in patient-centred care, ongoing education, and meaningful community impact. The MPT program provided a strong clinical foundation—and just as importantly, clarity about the kind of physiotherapist I want to become. I’m motivated by curiosity, compassion, and lifelong learning, and I’m excited for what comes next.