Drawing from his growing experience, Tse confidently assessed the injury as a hamstring issue.
However, Taylor, with her wealth of knowledge, gently corrected him, explaining the injury was actually related to the I.T. Band. Tse reflects on the experience with gratitude:
"I like to try and assess things and see if I get it right to test my knowledge. But I also love being wrong because Taylor doesn’t try to make you look stupid at all, and corrects us in a way that helps us learn."
Taylor’s mentorship has created a learning environment where students, like Tse and junior student AT Keatin Lee, gain invaluable skills.
Their responsibilities range from preparing water for athletes, taping injuries, to assisting Taylor on the field during games. Taylor has made it a priority to ensure her students are actively involved, often having them shadow her during football games.
“If I have to run out on the field, the student has to run out on the field too."
Taylor is passionate about passing on her expertise, frequently teaching the students practical skills like proper taping techniques. Tse shared how this knowledge has enhanced his own abilities as a soccer player:
“The knowledge has taught me basic safety skills.”
In collaboration with Athletic Director Nick Bonacorsi, Taylor is working on establishing an official student athletic training program.
She believes these experiences provide students with a strong foundation for a future in professional athletic training.
“Athletic training is not a job for one; it’s a team job. I need students to help out.”
Please go check out the full story on the el estoque online newspaper. This story was written by students and they did an amazing job!