Daniel Sedran, Physical Therapy

Daniel SedranStudent’s Name:  Daniel Sedran
Country of Origin:  Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
Pre-MSc/PhD Education: BSc Kinesiology at McMaster University, class of 2016

Recent Research Experience
Recently, I have acted as a participant in several studies which were conducted by the MSc Physical Therapy students in the year above me. Our MSc program at U of T is a professional program, and most of our education exists in the form of lectures, online learning, and in class practical experience. In the second year of out program, we have the opportunity to work along side clinicians and faculty to conduct a research project. This year, we were encouraged to participate in a number of these studies as these students were collecting their data. Some of them which I was involved in included studies focusing on motor learning, reaction time, and other interesting topics integral to our profession and the field of Physical Therapy as a whole.

Current Research Experience
As I am nearly finishing my first year of the program, I have recently begun the process of selecting my research topic for the upcoming academic year. The selection process involves ranking preferences from a list of quantitative and qualitative studies all related to various components of Physical Therapy. Each study is supervised by faculty and/or other researchers and cover a vast range of topics. Most of the studies which I have ranked towards the top of my list involve populations who have experienced acquired brain injuries and various other neurological conditions, as I have developed an interest in neurological populations and am looking to learn more about them. I am really looking forward to receiving my topic and beginning to learn about research first hand alongside my group members and supervisor.

Why Faculty of Medicine
I chose the Faculty of Medicine at U of T because of its unparalleled opportunities for gaining experience in my field. Downtown Toronto is home to some of the finest healthcare institutions in the world, and as a student within the faculty of medicine, we have the unbelievable opportunity of working with clinicians in these institutions and receiving a top-class education. Many of the clinicians which I have personally encountered thus far have also been graduates of U of T. Also, within just one year of my program, my class and I have had the opportunity to meet and work with students from other programs within the faculty on numerous occasions through interprofessional education sessions. This experience really helps to immerse students into the whole picture of patient care, and aids in unifying the various programs within the faculty. It is a unique and valuable learning experience for myself and the rest of my colleagues.

Future Education Plans and/or Career Goals
This program has introduced me to the many paths which I can take as a Physical Therapist and I am excited to continue exploring these options within the final year of my program and beyond. I have always had passions for athletics and healthy active living, as well as for working with children. Whether it be in acute care, in a rehabilitation hospital, or in a private clinic, there are so many outlets by which to explore a career that fulfills these needs. I have yet to decide the exact path that I plan on taking after my final year of studies, but whatever I do choose, I am confident that the MSc of Physical Therapy program is going to prepare me to pursue my dream career.

Contact Ambassador Daniel Sedran