Smiling person standing beside a wall display for Northwest Rehabilitation Associates, pointing toward the organization’s logo.

Kaitie Woodard

Kinesiology - Pre-therapy and allied health, BS

Northwest Rehabilitation Associates

What inspired or interested you about your field of study? 

I love seeing how small changes in movement help people feel better and return to what they enjoy, and how small moments become big wins when you look back on your journey. I chose OSU because I wanted a supportive kinesiology program that offered lots of hands-on experience, mentors who push me to grow and professors who are passionate about what they teach. 

What did you work on during your internship? 

I shadowed multiple physical therapists and observed how they use creative problem-solving and treatment progressions to help patients heal, build confidence and return to the activities that matter most. 

What do you see as the greatest value of your internship? 

The greatest value has been seeing physical therapists start with assessments and create treatment plans tailored to each patient. The communication and teamwork I observed were incredible, as everyone worked together to ensure patients had the support they needed. 

What do you think of your experience at OSU? 

The experiences I’ve had here are more than I imagined at the start of my journey. I was given opportunities to explore my focus while also being introduced to areas I might not have discovered otherwise. Thanks to the variety of classes and professors who encouraged me to try new things, I now have many ideas I’m excited to pursue in the future.

More internship spotlights

  • Kinesiology student Kaitie Woodard gained hands-on insight at Northwest Rehabilitation Associates, shadowing physical therapists and learning how movement, teamwork and individualized care support patient recovery.

  • Kinesiology student Olivia Miller gained hands-on occupational therapy experience at Old Mill Center and Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center.