Student Spotlight: Mary Lloyd – Reimagining Rehabilitation Through Passion and Purpose

A Unique Path to Transformative Learning

When Mary Lloyd first stepped into the Integrated Rehabilitation and Humanities (IRH) program, she brought with her not just academic ambition, but a vibrant personality that defies expectations. A varsity lacrosse player who can ride a unicycle and harbors an unexpectedly strong love for potatoes, Mary is anything but a conventional student.

From Health and Society to a Hands-On Approach

Previously enrolled in Health and Society, Mary found herself craving something more—a program that would connect her directly with people and provide tangible, practical experiences. “I wanted a program where I could ask 30 questions, engage in hands-on activities, and truly understand rehabilitation sciences,” she explains with infectious enthusiasm.

Why IRH? A Perfect Match

What sets the IRH program apart for Mary are its distinctive qualities: intimate class sizes, profound professor connections, and a curriculum designed to prepare students for real-world rehabilitation settings. “It’s not just about learning,” she says, “it’s about experiencing and understanding.”

Beyond Traditional Boundaries

Mary is particularly excited about how the program bridges humanities and rehabilitation sciences—a combination she believes is crucial for future professionals. “Most rehab science degrees focus on kinesiology or pure science,” she notes. “But the human element, the personal interaction—that’s what truly matters in rehabilitation.”

Looking Forward: Social Rehabilitation and Personal Growth

Her ultimate goal is to work in social rehabilitation, and she sees the IRH program as her pathway. The program’s unique practicum in level three especially excites her, promising hands-on experience that will set her apart in future professional endeavours.

“What I love most,” Mary shares, “is the freedom to explore. We get to design our own research projects, choose our focus. It’s not about fitting into a predetermined mold, but about discovering our own potential.”

A Community of Passionate Learners

Having discovered the program through a friend in Health and Society, Mary is now part of a tight-knit cohort. She’s looking forward to starting clubs, engaging with like-minded peers, and creating opportunities for genuine, interdisciplinary learning.

Her Advice to Future Students

For those considering the IRH program, Mary has a simple message: “Check out the website. It truly captures the essence of what we do here.”

Beyond the Classroom: Mary’s Unique Spirit

And just in case you’re wondering—yes, she can ride a unicycle. In the world of rehabilitation and humanities, Mary Lloyd is proving that unique skills, passionate learning, and a commitment to understanding human experience can create extraordinary pathways.