Erika Santarossa

McGregor, Ontario
Graduating with a BHK in movement science with co-op

How did you pick your major of study, and why did you choose the University of Windsor?

I chose to study kinesiology as I have always been interested in studying mechanisms of injury. Having endured several injuries in my own athletic career, I wanted to pursue a profession to help other athletes like myself to recover quickly from injuries and get back to their passion as soon as possible. I chose to study at the University of Windsor as I wanted to stay close to home for financial reasons.

What were your expectations of university? Has the University of Windsor met those expectations?

To provide me with the knowledge and experience for a future career in the field of kinesiology. The University of Windsor has indeed met my expectations. I have acquired substantial knowledge that has been passed down to me from the highly knowledgeable faculty members and have gained extensive hands on experience by taking advantage of the co-op opportunities. In addition, the various volunteer opportunities both on and off campus have allowed me the chance to network myself for future employment upon graduation.

What would you say is the most important thing you have learned at university: about yourself, about other people, about your field of study, or about the world?

The most important thing I have learned being in university is to work hard, and to never give up. It is important to work through the tough times, because hard work pays off. The harder you work, the more recognition you receive and the more doors open for you. I have had the opportunity to travel across Canada for my co-op work terms and have even got the chance to travel as far as Australia on an international exchange. Through these experiences I have been able to meet so many incredible people. In addition, I have been able to expand my network which has opened several doors for a future career in kinesiology.

What would you say has been the most memorable part of your UWindsor experience?

The people I have met and the relationships I have built have to be my greatest memories from the University of Windsor. I have met so many people that have greatly impacted my life, and have helped shape me into the person I am today. I will never forget them.  In addition, the memories I have from all my travels will never be forgotten.  I am certain that I have had the university experience that everyone dreams of, and I owe it all to the opportunities available through the University of Windsor.

Please tell us why you are proud to be part of the University of Windsor’s graduating class of 2011.

No matter where life takes me I will always be a University of Windsor Lancer at heart. I know that 20 years down the road, no matter where I may be, I will always be able to look back on all the memories I have from the University of Windsor and feel at home again. That is why I am proud to be a part of the University of Windsor’s graduating class of 2011. The University of Windsor is more than just a school; here, everyone is family.

Did you have a course, professor or classmate who inspired you?

My most inspirational class was a nine-day trip to Algonquin Park at the end of August 2010 for the Outdoor Recreation Course offered in the kinesiology department. Dr. Vicky Parashak helped us to open our minds and really discover our inner selves.  I met more people on that trip than I ever thought imaginable, every one of those people have inspired me in their own way.  In addition I got my creativity back, and I learned how to pace myself again, but most importantly Vicky taught us perspective, and to look at life situations as gold and silver rather than good and bad. Even silver moments have valuable lessons that can be taken away from them.

Another true inspiration to me is Dr. David Andrews. He has inspired me to be so much more than I ever imagined for myself, by always finding a way to motivate me to work harder. He goes above and beyond his requirements to find opportunities for his students, to expand their knowledge and get more hands on application. I could not have asked for a better advisor for my Masters!

What are your plans following graduation?

I began my Masters of Human Kinetics in January 2011. I am currently specializing in research related to ergonomics, biomechanics and human factors. I hope to graduate from my MHK by Fall 2012, then either complete a PhD or start my career. I guess I’ll just have to wait and see what doors open for me.