Xavier Exercise Science Student Spotlight: Maddy George
- Name: Maddy George
- Graduation Year: 2025
- Program: Exercise Science
- Current Role / Future Plans: Mount St. Joseph University Doctor of Physical Therapy Student
- Hometown: Downingtown, PA
What brought you to Xavier University and the Exercise Science program?
When I first visited Xavier, I really loved the community aspect that I observed. Everyone at Xavier truly wants the best for you and it felt so comfortable to be on Xavier’s campus with so many great resources.
What inspired you to study Exercise Science?
I am inspired to study Exercise Science because I love the idea of a holistic approach to medicine and healthcare. I want to help get people back to their full potential while also forming relationships with my patients.
What’s been a favorite class, project, or experience in the program?
My favorite two classes in the Exercise Science Program at Xavier were Resistance Training and Fitness for Special Populations. In both classes, we had a lot of opportunities to work hands on whether it was at The Academy of Sports Performance with Jenson or with Dr. Varol’s children!
Another one of my favorite experiences in the program was joining Exercise Science club. The EXSC club at Xavier was always hosting exciting opportunities to expand your horizon across all the possibilities exercise science has to offer. Some of the fun activities we did were learning Jujitsu with Jenson at The Academy of Sports Performance, touring facilities like the FC Cincinnati stadium, hearing from many different professionals in our field and so much more.
Tell us about a meaningful hands-on experience (research, internship, practicum, or fieldwork).
A meaningful hands-on experience that I had while I was at Xavier was working at Fyzical Therapy and Balance Centers during my practicum. I met so many different people with varying diagnoses. Being able to help them work through their struggles and simply just getting to know each one of these patients made such a huge impact on my life as a student. This experience furthered my desire to become a physical therapist and continue to serve others.
How have you grown personally or professionally since joining the program?
I have personally grown so much since joining the Xavier Exercise Science program. I feel so much more confident in myself as a student and in myself to complete the goals that I have been striving my whole life to complete. The faculty at Xavier and within the Exercise Science Program have played a big role in instilling this confidence in me and supporting me throughout my journey, even post grad.
What are you doing now post Xavier graduation?
Since I graduated from Xavier in May, I have started Physical Therapy school at Mount St. Joseph University.
What advice would you give to future students in this program?
If I could give any advice to future students in this program, I would say get involved as much as you can and push yourself to get out of your comfort zone! Your time at Xavier is truly what you make of it and there are so many cool opportunities and resources provided at Xavier.
Favorite study spot
HUB study rooms
Go-to motivation snack
Chex Mix
One word to describe your time here
Fulfilling