Meet nine rehab science students joining Temerty Medicine
A figure skater, a dancer, twins and a piano teacher are among the newest students at Temerty Medicine, where they will study physical therapy and occupational therapy over the next two years.
Meet Anna, Ethan, Rumi, twins Taylor and Lauren, Rija, Sierra, Victoria and Israa and see what inspired them to pursue careers in rehabilitation sciences.
Anna Roper, MScPT, UTSG
What did you do before coming to the physical therapy program?
I graduated from Queen’s University with a Bachelor of Science (honours) in kinesiology. Here, I had the opportunity to be an athletic therapy student trainer for the varsity men’s volleyball team. I was also fortunate to engage in sport psychology research, where I examined coach leadership behaviours in youth figure skating.
Each summer, I returned to my hometown of Ottawa, where I continued to gain physical therapy experience and grew increasingly passionate about the profession.
What made you interested in pursuing physical therapy?
Physical therapy was introduced to me early in life, as I experienced significant gross motor delays when I immigrated to Canada as an infant. The physical therapist who treated me not only helped me reach important developmental milestones but also fostered my love for physical activity and movement. I will always be grateful for the way that physical therapy has impacted my life, and I hope to harness this gratitude by empowering others to engage in the activities they find meaningful.
What are you most looking forward to over the next two years?
Over the next two years, I am looking forward to embracing the many opportunities to grow as a clinician, student and person. I am excited to connect with and learn from individuals across the physical therapy field, while exploring a new city and becoming part of a renowned program.
What do you like to do outside of school?
Outside of school, I enjoy running, going to the gym, spending time with friends and visiting coffee shops. As a former figure skater, I love both skating and coaching skaters of all ages!
Ethan Kean, MScPT, UTSG
What did you do before coming to the physical therapy program?
Before coming to U of T, I completed my undergraduate degree in kinesiology at Memorial University in Newfoundland. During my time there, I worked and volunteered in different roles, including providing injury care to athletes as a student athletic trainer, organizing exercise classes for seniors in rural areas and teaching kids how to ride a bike at a camp.
These experiences strengthened my passion for using movement to help improve the lives of others.
What made you interested in pursuing physical therapy?
Exercise has always been a large part of my life as my mother owns the gym in my hometown. I am fascinated with how people move and respond to exercise. But I truly knew physical therapy was my path when my grandfather started coming to the gym with me. He has Parkinson’s disease so many everyday tasks, like getting all your groceries in one trip, are more difficult for him. When he started coming to train with me, I saw improvement in his performance with everyday tasks and his quality of life improved.
This experience cemented my interest in pursuing physical therapy as it combines my fascination with the body and passion for helping others and making their lives a little bit easier.
What are you most looking forward to over the next two years?
I am looking forward to meeting my classmates, who all bring unique qualities to the profession. I am also excited to dive into learning so I can eventually take the knowledge I gain here back to Newfoundland to help provide quality care to rural communities.
What do you like to do outside of school?
I love being outdoors and being active. Growing up in Newfoundland meant that being outside was non-negotiable. Whether it was hiking, snowmobiling or swimming in the pond, we did it all. I also love training Judo, Jiu Jitsu, weightlifting and riding my bike.
Taylor and Lauren Wilcox, MScPT, UTSG
What did you do before coming to the physical therapy program?
Lauren: I recently completed my Bachelor of Kinesiology and Physical Education at U of T. I had many valuable experiences, like working as a clinical research assistant at the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute. I also worked as a student physical therapist at the David L. MacIntosh Sport Medicine Clinic, and a research student in the Centre for Sport-Related Concussion Research, Innovation and Knowledge. I volunteer as a coach with the Toronto Beaches Lacross Team, mentoring young female athletes.
Taylor: I also completed my undergraduate degree in kinesiology and physical education here at U of T. During that time, I worked as a student physical therapist with the Varsity Blues, conducted research on sex-based differences in metabolism in the Exercise Physiology Lab, and worked as a patient experience manager at Cadence Physiotherapy with my sister.
In my community, my sister and I volunteer with the Toronto Beaches Lacrosse Club, where we coach and mentor youth girls’ lacrosse teams, helping build confidence through sport and promoting women’s health through physical activity.
What made you interested in pursuing physical therapy?
Taylor: I am interested in physical therapy because it helps people move, heal and return to the activities that matter most to them. As a Varsity Lacrosse athlete, I experienced this first-hand after tearing my ACL during a game and spending a year in physical therapy. That experience inspired me to help others overcome mobility and functional challenges so they can live their happiest, most fulfilling lives.
Lauren: From an early age, I have been fascinated by the complexities of the human body and how its systems work together to move, adapt and heal. This inspired me to pursue a career where I can help others regain function, improve their quality of life and achieve their goals.
Like my sister, I also needed ACL surgery during my time as a Varsity Lacrosse athlete. My experience with physical therapy while recovering from surgery was pivotal. It helped me to rebuild confidence and return to the sport I love. This solidified my passion for this field!
Rumi Dolmaya, MScPT, UTSG
What did you do before coming to the physical therapy program?
Before starting the program, I studied kinesiology as part of my undergraduate degree. Alongside my studies, I explored different areas of rehabilitation through volunteer work at the National Ballet School, Campfire Circle (a camp for children with cancer and serious illnesses), and in private clinics. I also worked at SickKids Hospital where I gained insight into the physical and emotional experiences of patients.
What made you interested in pursuing physical therapy?
I became interested in rehabilitation as a competitive dancer, where I was drawn to understanding injury and recovery. My passion grew when I began working with paediatric rehabilitation patients and seeing the barriers children with disabilities face. These experiences inspired me to pursue a career in physical therapy with a focus on paediatric and prosthetic care.
What are you most looking forward to over the next two years?
I am looking forward to developing hands-on clinical skills and learning from patients to deepen my knowledge of meaningful care. I am also looking forward to building connections with classmates and faculty who share a passion for rehabilitation. I hope to discover how my interests in paediatric and prosthetic care can make the greatest impact, while staying open to exploring other areas of physical therapy.
What do you like to do outside of school?
Outside of school, I enjoy reading novels, particularly contemporary fiction and mystery, and staying active through dance and fitness. I enjoy creative projects, whether through volunteering or exploring new hobbies that let me learn and create. I also love diving into true crime podcasts; it is strangely compelling to be scared while doing laundry!
Rija Jafri, MScOT, UTSG
What did you do before coming to U of T?
Before coming to U of T, I completed an Honours Bachelor of Science in biomedical science with a minor in psychology at Toronto Metropolitan University. After graduating, I gained experience in health care and community settings working as a medical office assistant in family medicine and cardiology. I also volunteered in paediatric programs, including rebound therapy at Therabounce Inc., an all-abilities soccer program, and helped organize youth programs at my local mosque.
What made you interested in pursuing occupational therapy?
My interest in occupational therapy began in high school during a co-op placement in the geriatrics department at Lakeridge Health. Working one-on-one with older patients in long-term rehabilitation, I saw the challenges they faced while recovering from strokes, multiple sclerosis, or hip replacements. I saw how occupational therapists helped them regain independence in meaningful ways. I was drawn to the holistic nature of occupational therapy, which addresses not only physical needs but also cognitive, emotional and social aspects of health.
I am motivated to pursue occupational therapy to help people live more independently and enjoy the things that matter most to them.
What are you most looking forward to over the next two years?
Over the next two years, I am most looking forward to gaining hands-on experience through fieldwork placements and seeing how classroom learning translates into practice. I am excited to explore different areas of occupational therapy, discover both my strengths and areas for growth, and learn more about what I am truly passionate about. I'm incredibly grateful and excited for the opportunity to pursue this path and hope to make the most of it by building meaningful relationships along the way!
What do you like to do outside of school?
Outside of school, I love going on long walks, spending time outdoors in nature with family and friends, and building connections with the youth group at my mosque. I also run a small business where I design and create personalized items, allowing me to express my creativity and bring unique ideas to life.
Sierra Russell, MScOT, UTSG
What did you do before coming to U of T?
I completed my undergraduate degree at Nipissing University in biology with a minor in psychology. During my undergrad, I worked as a teaching assistant in anatomy and physiology classes and as a laboratory assistant for medicinal and organic chemistry. I also volunteered at the North Bay Regional Health Centre with the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) where I visited older adults and helped them with eating, exercising and other activities. This program improves the hospital experience for older adults and reduces rates of cognitive decline and delirium.
What made you interested in pursuing occupational therapy?
As early as I can remember, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in health care. My interest in occupational therapy began right when I discovered this career field. Through volunteering at my local hospital, I was able to speak directly to occupational therapists and learn about their roles and duties. I was attracted to their client-centered approach and focus on improving the quality of life of their clients.
What are you most looking forward to over the next two years?
Over the next two years, I am looking forward to learning about the vast and diverse field of occupational therapy. I am very excited to participate in both hands-on learning through fieldwork placements, which will hopefully allow me to find my passion within occupational therapy, and research, which is a strength of U of T’s occupational therapy program.
On a non-academic note, being from a small town, I am looking forward to meeting new people and living the big city lifestyle!
What do you like to do outside of school?
Outside of school, my main hobbies include going on hikes and walks, reading and going to the gym. I am a houseplant enthusiast, which involves much watering and repotting. I also love to spend time with my friends and family. Having hobbies is so important for students to keep a good work/life balance!
Victoria Iannace, MScOT, UTM
What did you do before coming to U of T?
I completed a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience at York University, where I learned how neurological conditions impact motor function and daily living. I had the opportunity to volunteer with occupational therapists in a neurorehabilitation unit who help people rebuild skills and confidence in their everyday lives.
Outside of academics, I love music and working with young children. I have been teaching piano for several years and really enjoy supporting kids as they learn and grow.
What made you interested in pursuing occupational therapy?
I have always been passionate about helping people overcome challenges and do the things they love. I volunteered in various rehabilitation fields and watching occupational therapists help people regain independence and improve their quality of life was truly inspiring and showed me the kind of work I hope to do in the future.
What are you most looking forward to over the next two years?
I am very excited to meet and work with my new classmates and mentors while continuing to learn and grow as a student occupational therapist. I am looking forward to the program’s fieldwork placements as an opportunity to observe and apply what I learn in class. I also hope to participate in clubs and recreation programs on campus.
What do you like to do outside of school?
Outside of school, I enjoy staying active through running, weightlifting and playing pickleball. I love spending time with my friends and trying new things, like experimenting with recipes or teaching myself the violin.
Israa Lotlikar, MScOT, UTSG
What did you do before coming to U of T?
I recently completed my undergraduate degree in kinesiology with a minor in linguistics at McMaster University. During my time there, I served as a residence advisor, worked as an inclusion counsellor supporting children with disabilities and volunteered at several rehabilitation organizations that focus on communication and accessibility for individuals with neurological conditions.
What made you interested in pursuing occupational therapy?
My interest was sparked while volunteering with an aphasia peer connect group. Supporting individuals with communication challenges gave me first-hand insight into the barriers they face in daily life and the importance of creating inclusive, client-centered solutions. One client shared how they used a 3D printer to design tools, like a phone holder, to maintain independence. This moment highlighted the resource gaps many individuals experience and inspired me to pursue occupational therapy as a way to help bridge these gaps and empower clients in meaningful ways.
What are you most looking forward to over the next two years?
Over the next two years, I am most looking forward to fieldwork placements to explore different areas of occupational therapy, building connections with classmates, learning from their unique experiences and further developing my critical thinking skills through the program's research project.
What do you like to do outside of school?
Outside of school, I enjoy watching and playing sports, baking, reading, painting and trying new cafés. Since moving back to Toronto after four years in Hamilton, I’ve been spending time exploring downtown and discovering new places in the city.
