Soon-to-be Missouri State University graduate Malia Vazquez is off to make her mark on the world.
This May, she will earn a degree in exercise and movement science, a minor in psychology and a Foundations of Nutrition undergraduate certificate. Her goal is to become a physical therapist (PT).
Why physical therapy?
Vazquez’s inspiration for her degree choice resulted from her dad having to undergo physical therapy. She would take him to his appointments and immediately fell in love with the profession.
“It combined my interests in science and assisting others. Being able to use exercise as medicine and improve the lives of others in my community is extremely rewarding,” she said.
This led her to pursue the pre-professional track in PT.
Her academic journey
Within her major, minor and certificate, she has taken many courses that have expanded her knowledge and understanding. Her favorites were Kinesiology (KIN 360) and Strength and Conditioning (KIN 465).
“Kinesiology focused on analyzing movement and how forces go into the movement of stabilization and joints, which will be a focus in my future as a PT,” Vazquez said. “Strength and Conditioning taught me how to create exercise programming that would be specific to the needs of individuals.”
Two faculty members — assistant professor of kinesiology Dr. Ryan Gordon and professor of kinesiology Dr. Rebecca Woodard — stood out to Vazquez for their diligence and attention given to students.
Getting involved at MSU
Vazquez, who is from Blue Springs, Missouri, chose MSU for its affordability and the opportunities and experience provided here. She has been actively involved on campus over the past four years.
She has served as president of the Pre-Physical Therapy Society since May 2023. This society focuses on creating a community for students interested in going into PT. Vazquez has been a part of this organization all four years at MSU, serving as social chair in her sophomore year and vice president in her junior year. As president, she plans and runs the society’s monthly meetings monthly.
With her interest in being outdoors and helping others enjoy it, she also works for the Foster Recreation Center on campus in the outdoor adventures department as a lead staff and trip leader.
Additionally, she is part of University Ambassadors, the official student public relations team of Missouri State. As an ambassador, she gives campus tours to prospective students and their family members, as well as represents MSU at on- and off-campus events.
Future plans
After graduation, Vazquez plans to move to Flagstaff, Arizona, to get her Doctor of Physical Therapy at Northern Arizona University.
Her dream job is to work in PT for a professional women’s sports team.