KERAN DENISE DANIEL is Owner and Manual Massage Therapist at Symmetrical Bodyworks Clinic, and a graduate of The University of Trinidad and Tobago’s (UTT) Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with specialisation in Exercise Science and Pedagogy & Coaching. She shares her perspective on how her time at UTT has impacted her life:

Give us a brief history of your academic and professional background.

I pursued numerous courses at various institutions; Certificate in Physical Education, Certificate of the Arts and Science of Coaching, and Diploma in Massage Therapy. I also hold a Level 1 Certificate in Swimming and I am a Level 2 Men’s Gymnastics coach.  I began my vocation as a Gymnastics coach twenty-four years ago, and I have taught Physical Education for twelve years. 

My journey as a Massage Therapist started in 2017; a passion stemming from the reactions of family and friends who I casually helped with innumerable body aches and pains. After attending my very first class I knew that this was certainly the field for me. This drive led me to open my first massage clinic in 2018, where I offer orthopaedic massage therapy, and other types of massage modalities.

What influenced your decision to pursue this programme at UTT?

After opening my massage clinic in St. Joseph, I realised that although I possessed sufficient knowledge and skills to be successful in delivering quality treatment to my clients, I wanted to gain greater knowledge regarding the human body, and understanding about human movement. At that time, I applied to study at UTT, and luckily, a programme in kinesiology was made available that year, for the first time. Unfortunately, I had to witness the closure of my clinic as the programme was full-time and I needed to dedicate the time to my studies; however, this turned out to be a worthwhile investment.

How has being a graduate of UTT assisted your overall professional experience and development?

Being a UTT graduate has allowed me to attain a greater level of confidence in all aspects of my life. This experience has also permitted me to enhance my skills and craft as a Manual Massage Therapist.

In 2019, at UTT’s Annual Sports Award and Recognition Ceremony, I was awarded for my performances in Excellence in Human Anatomy II, and Sport Safety and First Aid, and I also received four certifications of recognition. These commendations gave me the added support required to give my all to this calling, which has now become my passion. 

Overall, this programme has boosted my self-confidence, belief, and motivation that I can go all the way and pursue my Doctor of Philosophy, after attaining my Master’s degree in Sports Therapy.

What words of advice do you have for those wishing to pursue this line of study at UTT?

Without a doubt, The University of Trinidad and Tobago and in particular, its Centre for Kinesiology, Physical Education and Sport is assuredly the place where you will have a great experience developing your skills in one of the many sporting fields, under the most dedicated facility and staff members. I have been on the receiving end where my lecturers have attentively mentored, guided and supported me throughout my four years at the University.

Many persons who want to get involved in one profession or another in sport may not be exactly sure which field they want to purse and may not even recognise the number of options available to study, whether it is biomechanics, exercise physiology, sports nutrition, teaching, management or sports psychology, to name just a few. Rest assured, this programme provides you with the perfect opportunity to develop the fundamentals of countless sporting disciplines.