Dear Career Advisor:

I recently volunteered at a nearby high school to assist the school nurse on sports day. My knowledge of first-aid, based on my training in the Red Cross, was taken into consideration. The day was hectic, but I also found it rewarding and exciting. I have since been thinking about sports medicine as a career. Do you think it is a good field? What are the opportunities in this area?

Michael J.Dear Michael:

Michael J.

Dear Michael:

Commendations on taking the initiative to volunteer your service to the school. I have no doubt that it was highly appreciated and valued.

Your academic background, previous training and career interests are strong determinants of whether or not a career is right for you. The same would apply to sports medicine. What is clear is that you do have a strong interest and some foundational awareness through your training in the Red Cross Society. A strong background in science is advantageous but is not a limitation, as many universities offer pre-qualifying programmes. So, assuming your interest is sustained, your consideration of this field would be well worth pursuing.

Sports medicine professionals offer a range of services, including prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of injuries relating to sporting activities. It is reported to be a very rewarding career, with the added incentive of being present at sporting events and sometimes travelling with the athlete or sporting team.

There are many pathways in the field of sports medicine, including:

• Medical doctor

• Sports and exercise professional

• Nurse

• Physical therapist

• Exercise physiologist

• Nutritionist

• Dietitian

• Athletic trainer

• Clinical physiologist

• Kinesiotherapist.

The path you choose will depend on your interests and the kind of work and work environment you envision yourself doing. Sports medicine practitioners may work in hospitals, clinics, private practice, educational institutions, government agencies, or directly with athletes, sporting teams and sponsoring organisations.

Another bit of good news is that training in most areas relating to sports medicine is available in Jamaica; there is even an MSc in Sports and Exercise Medicine.

Best wishes as you explore and follow your dream.

Sincerely,Career AdvisorCarolyn Marie Smith is assistant vice president, Student Services at Northern Caribbean University in Mandeville, Manchester. Submit your questions to her at careeradvisor@ncu.edu.jm

Sincerely,

Career Advisor

Carolyn Marie Smith is assistant vice president, Student Services at Northern Caribbean University in Mandeville, Manchester. Submit your questions to her at careeradvisor@ncu.edu.jm