Meet Bethany Bradshaw. The Order of Pegasus recipient is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology with hopes of becoming a physical therapist one day. She originally came to UCF to pursue aerospace and to follow the footsteps of her brother, a statistics student. She quickly realized her lifelong passion for sports and decided to pursue a career exploring human movement, function and performance. She discovered kinesiology and fell in love. During her studies, she assisted Associate Professor Matt Stock with resistance training research in his lab which helped solidify her decision to pursue physical therapy. Her work as an undergraduate also earned her the Outstanding Kinesiology Student award in Spring 2022. While at UCF, she was involved with the Undergraduate Physical Therapy Association (UPTA), ASL Knights, Life-To-Life Ministry and intramural sports.
Hometown: Clermont, FL
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
What will you be doing after graduation?
After graduation, I will be attending Baylor University for physical therapy school beginning in January 2024. Sic ‘em Bears!
What are your long-term career plans?
My long-term goal is to become a doctor of physical therapy. I hope to work in an inpatient setting with either geriatrics or those recovering from malnutrition and eating disorders. I would like to promote principles of joyful movement, rest, and recovery in my practice. I plan to stay active in the research community and as a mental health advocate.
What accomplishment from your time at UCF are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my induction into the Order of Pegasus. I have worked hard during my time at UCF to pursue excellence in all that I do, both inside and outside of the classroom. There is so much more to a rich college experience beyond simply passing classes. I hope that my time spent engaging in research, volunteering in the community, and participating in numerous student organizations reflects this. Go Knights, Charge On!
What did you love the most about your time at UCF?
I found my people at UCF. What I loved most was building relationships with others that will last long after graduation. There is always someone on campus to share a laugh with or spread a smile to. Because of the community here, I have seen so much growth within myself over the past few years. My time at UCF brought out a new confidence and enthusiasm towards life. To become a UCF alumna alongside so many amazing other graduates is uplifting and inspiring.
What was your favorite class, professor, or experience at CHPS, and why?
I have to give a shout out to the entire Institute of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Science (IEPRS) and all of the labs collaborating within the Institute. IEPRS has felt like my family within the Kinesiology program. As an undergraduate researcher, I gained extensive knowledge about the field and was able to apply skills in real time. I am extremely grateful for all of my mentors and the wonderful leadership they continue to provide.
