Graduate Ready

For Aubrey Kietzman ’27, Illinois College is where academic rigor meets real-world preparation. A kinesiology and exercise science major and member of the women’s basketball team, Kietzman balances athletics, research and hands-on clinical experience as she prepares for graduate school in physical therapy.

Through an internship with the physical therapy department at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital, Kietzman shadowed clinicians, observed patient care and learned the behind-the-scenes realities of the profession. “I was able to see how they worked with patients and how everything operated day to day,” she said. “It really confirmed that this is what I want to do.”

On campus, Kietzman works closely with assistant professor of biology Prasanna Acharya on a research project examining how smartphone posture impacts neck pain and mobility. “Being able to work one-on-one with a professor has helped me understand how research actually works before grad school,” she said.

With supportive coaches, faculty mentors, and experiential learning opportunities, Kietzman is graduating READY for the next step in her healthcare career.