“One of my favourite parts of the job is connecting with people and supporting them through their progress, whether that’s helping someone return to sport after an injury or simply helping them move and feel better in their everyday life. I think I find most joy in the small wins!”
For musculoskeletal physiotherapist and La Trobe alum Carolina Pais, it’s the everyday moments that make the job so rewarding.
Carolina’s days are varied. She works with clients one-on-one and leads a range of movement-based group classes.
“I teach both large group and small-group clinical Pilates sessions. These are tailored, exercise-based classes that support rehabilitation and performance,” she explains.
“We see a fairly active and athletic population, including dancers and athletes, but we also treat people from all walks of life who are recovering from injury or simply want to feel stronger and move more freely.”
Carolina completed a Master of Physiotherapy Practice with La Trobe, choosing the course based on its strong reputation and industry partnerships.
“What truly drew me in, however, was La Trobe’s partnership with The Australian Ballet. As a former professional ballerina, I was aware of the incredible work of Dr Sue Mayes, Associate Professor Ebonie Rio and Professor Jill Cook with the dancers at The Australian Ballet. So, the opportunity to learn from them, leaders in an area I’m deeply passionate about, was a major factor in my decision.”
She says her degree gave her a solid foundation to step into clinical practice with confidence.
“The course is incredibly fast-paced and packed with content, but the theoretical subjects gave me a strong understanding of core physiotherapy principles. That foundation really set us up well.”
“The course offers a broad range of core placements across a range of settings. Having that variety was so valuable. It helped me understand the day-to-day realities of practice. It also gave me the chance to explore different areas of physiotherapy, not just to prepare for my first role, but to help shape my long-term career path.”
