By Mark Yanai

Mahalo & Aloha Victoria

FullSizeRender 14

As we introduce our new Co-Ops, we also say goodbye to those who have completed the fall semester. Victoria guest blogs for me as she reflects back on the past six months and her experience with F&L.

There’s not a day that goes by when I don’t wish I could be back in Hawaii (especially with Boston’s current 30 degree weather). I had wanted to apply to the Fukuji and Lum co-op ever since I first heard about it three years ago. As someone who loves to travel, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to continue my physical therapy education while living in and experiencing a new place.

[one_half]

While the thought of moving halfway around the world for six months seemed intimidating, the Fukuji and Lum family welcomed us with open arms and showed us the true meaning of “Aloha” from day one. I feel truly lucky to have had the privilege of getting to know both the staff members and patients at F&L. From giving me my first spam musubi to inviting us to an Okinawan festival, everyone went out of their way to ensure we experienced all aspects of the Hawaiian culture. The always calm and friendly Hawaiian spirit was impossible not to catch and is something I hope to always keep with me.

[/one_half]

[one_half_last]

FullSizeRender 7

[/one_half_last]

[one_half]

FullSizeRender 8

[/one_half]

[one_half_last]

My weeks in Hawaii were filled with learning while I worked at the Kailua and Kaneohe Clinics as well as the Aquatic Therapy program in Kaneohe. The dedicated physical therapists and PTA’s were always there to encourage me and answer my many questions. Thanks to them, I have come back to Boston knowing more than I ever thought I could learn in six months and with a greater drive to continue learning and complete my final three years of physical therapy school.

[/one_half_last]

Growing up a swimmer, Kaneohe pool’s Aquatic Therapy program made me feel at home immediately. Working with physical therapists Rachel, Jocelyn, and Joy, as well as the rest of the aquatic therapy staff, Deb, Billy, Wes and my fellow co-op Connor, there was always somebody ready to show me new techniques or answer a question. During my six months, I was able to watch the program grow and have gained a greater understanding of Aquatic Therapy and the many benefits it provides.

victoria pool    victoria tiedye

In the Kailua clinic I worked closely with Randall Fukuji and Clarise who introduced me to PRI (Postural Restoration Institute), an approach to physical therapy that I had never heard of before coming to Hawaii. In the clinic, I instructed patients in their exercises and assisted with some manual techniques. I’ve learned the importance of keeping an open mind and always continuing my education as a physical therapist.

In Kaneohe’s Lower Atherton Clinic I was able to assist and observe physical therapists Jamie, Brad and Nate, and gained an appreciation for the many different ways each of them treated patients. Also, PTAs Colleen and Janie were always there to teach me new exercises and answer any of my questions. From observing evaluations, manual therapy, and attending different in-services, the Kaneohe clinic kept me constantly learning.

[one_half]

Outside the clinic, my weekends were always exciting and filled with different adventures. My favorite memories include many muddy hikes and beautiful beaches, as well as kayaking to the Mokulua island, spending days on the North Shore, and swimming with wild spinner dolphins. I don’t think thank you is enough to describe how grateful I am to each one of my coworkers, patients, and new friends for making   Windward Oahu feels like home.

Aloha,

Victoria

[/one_half]

[one_half_last]

IMG_1739

[/one_half_last]

By Mark Yanai

Introducing Amelia

Here we go again! The new Northeastern University Co-ops are here and we have FIVE of them this semester! This is most that we’ve ever employed for a semester, but with the growth of our organization, we’ve taken the plunge into staffing a student at each of our four clinics. See some of my previous blogs and our website for information about our relationship with Northeastern University.

[one_half]

Amelia

[/one_half]
[one_half_last]

Fukuji & Lum welcomes Amelia, one of the five Co-ops staying with us for the next six months. She is currently working at our NEW Honolulu clinic at the Kuakini Medical Center. Amelia is braving the morning traffic from Kailua to town, working as a medical receptionist and assisting our therapists, Shaw Okawara and Art Lum.

Amelia shared some thoughts about coming to Hawaii and her experiences so far.

[/one_half_last]

[one_half]

– What school did you attend in high school and what’s your current college?

I graduated Bethlehem Catholic High School in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and I’m currently in my fourth year at Northeastern University.

[/one_half]

[one_half_last]

casestudy_bethlehem1

[/one_half_last]

– Why did you want to do your co-op in Hawaii?

I love traveling in general but I wanted to come to Hawaii to immerse myself in an entirely different place for a Co-op. I wanted to experience what practicing PT was like here as well as explore the culture. I’m hoping I’ll be able to take back a new perspective on my PT practice as well as life in general when I return to Boston. I’m also grateful to have escaped the wicked New England winter.

– What has been your experience like so far?

I love it so far! There are beautiful things everywhere you look. I’ve been really enjoying weekend adventures and all the outdoor activities. It’s hard to do a lot of those things in the city back home, so I’ve really been trying to soak it all in while I’m here!

– What’s the strangest thing that you’ve eaten since arriving?

My roommates and I have been eating any weird fruit we can get our hands on. So far I’d probably have to say it’s lilikoi. We’ve also eaten quite a few things we don’t know the names for…

– What is on your to do list while here?

I’m really hoping to do cage diving with sharks off the North Shore. It’s been #1 on my bucket list since I was about 13. Also, surfing lessons.

– What are your outside interests?

I’m a voracious reader, I’ll read pretty much anything. I like art museums, cooking, hiking, yoga, and horse back riding. I also thoroughly enjoy long walks to the fridge.

[one_half]

amelia twitter

[/one_half]

[one_half_last]

– What drew you to physical therapy and what kind of therapist do you hope to be?

My mom is an occupational hand therapist so I’ve always grown up around rehabilitation. I took an anatomy class in high school and she’d always tell me cool things I didn’t learn in class, which sparked my interest in PT. She’s also incredibly caring towards her patients, often working late hours just to fit them all in and coming up with custom contraptions so her patients could get back to their daily lives. I’ve never seen a therapist as hardworking and humble, and I hope one day I can be even half the therapist she is.

[/one_half_last]

By Mark Yanai

Finding Teagan: A New Home

pool2015

Teagan Ferguson’s Co-Op Experience

When I think about Teagan, I get a little misty eyed. I first interviewed her for a co-op position a year before she arrived on Oahu. She was very quiet and reserved. Honestly, I was concerned that she wasn’t ready for the experience of being so far from home so I recommended that she apply again the following year. She ended up traveling to Hawaii with her family and visited our facilities. She contacted me and again expressed her desire to join us. Her determination to join us was evident and I offered her the position gladly.

Throughout Teagan’s six-month employment with us, her skills, along with her confidence, grew immensely as she worked closely with our patients and staff therapists. What amazed me the most about Teagan, was her ability to adapt. Due to multiple unexpected changes, she was asked to deal with changes to her schedule, including moving locations, and working with different programs. She definitely displayed a level of maturity that impressed us all and became one of our most versatile, multi-skilled clinicians that patients embraced as their own.

Here’s what she wrote about that experience.

[one_half]

I’ve traveled my whole life and never lived anywhere very long. I’m honestly not one to jump at a chance to travel more, but I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to revisit the place where I was born. After my co-op with Fukuji and Lum I was really glad I had taken the trip to work with them. F &L is truly a family, one that includes the patients that we cared for. I was able to work at Lower Atherton’s Outpatient Clinic and in Aquatic Therapy at the pool.

[/one_half]

[one_half_last]IMG_6378[/one_half_last]
With the F&L family I was able to solidify my skills in the outpatient clinic and learn a lot about clinical decisions from Jamie, whom I worked closely with. It was great to see things from her perspective as a newer PT and learn some tips along the way.

[one_half]

Down at the pool I had the ever-amazing Rachael Hyland to guide my learning. She helped me grow from a nervous student to someone who was ready to take on clinical education with confidence.

It was amazing to see how much could be done in an aquatic setting, from ROM to conditioning and balance, and how creative the field could be. I was grateful that I could have such a positive experience in the field I’d like to specialize into. 
[/one_half]
[one_half_last]

[/one_half_last]
The things I’ve learned as a co-op student aren’t the only things I’m thankful for either. Everyone shared their part of Hawaii, whether it was food from our lovely patients, Colleen opening her doors to house us or Ryan and Talon showing us the social life. The staff went out of their way to really make this a wonderful experience for all of us. 
Being back in classes definitely isn’t the same as being on an island but after this experience I’m much more motivated and have valuable insight. I look forward to a chance to return to Oahu and hopefully make it a more permanent accommodation. 
IMG_3011 Mahalo, 
Teagan Ferguson

By Mark Yanai

The NEU Experience @ WORC by: Cody Gilliss

L1060424

Cody Gilliss arrived in Hawaii early in January 2015 and began his 6 month Co-operative experience at F&L’s Windward Occupational Rehab Center (WORC). I had interviewed Cody four months prior and knew that he would be a great fit for the unique setting that WORC has to offer. After returning to Boston a month ago, Cody took some time to reflect on his experience and share it with us.

Having the opportunity to work at Fukuji & Lum Physical Therapy was a once in a lifetime experience for me, and I can’t thank everyone at F&L enough for my 6 months in paradise. It’s sad to believe my short time with F&L is already over and I’m back in Boston, but Hawai’i, the memories, and the friends I made along the way will be with me for years to come.

[one_half]

IMAG4264

[/one_half]

[one_half_last]

Being my first real move from home, I was worried how I would fit in with the culture, the people, and everyone I was working with. Fortunately for me, I was lucky enough to work with some of the best people I’ve ever met – and had the opportunity to work with so many amazing patients. Thank you all for making my move to Hawai’i truly a breeze.

Prior to this work experience, I knew I wanted to experience something different than what I would get at home in Boston. I was greeted by a crew of talented and passionate forward-thinkers that really revolutionize and break the mold of the physical therapy practice. The WORC clinic uses a lot of cutting-edge and exciting new methods to rehabilitate their patients, and it was a pleasure to be a student learning from everyone there.

[/one_half_last]

[one_half]
Every day I knew that I would learn something new, or have a new book sitting at my desk. The amount of knowledge and insight I have gained through everyone at F&L is amazing and I am very grateful. Mark emphasized to me that it’s important to forever be a student, and now I realize how true that really is. I learned you should always strive to be better, to learn more, and to be responsible for your own education.

[/one_half]

[one_half_last]

cody3

[/one_half_last]

Working at F&L under Mark, David, Stacy, Jessie, Lisa and Ross taught me so much about how to be a great physical therapist and a great healthcare provider. They work so hard to put the patient’s health and wellbeing first, and it’s something I look forward to providing for my patients in my professional future down the road.

Every patient that walked through the door seemed to be a part of the F&L family, and it was a blessing to be a part of that family, or Ohana, while I was there. I now definitely understand what it means to practice physical therapy “with aloha”, and it’s something I will bring back here to the mainland!

IMAG4366

Sports Day at WORC

Speaking of things I want to bring back to the mainland, there are so many things I want to bring back here. First and most important – my favorite Hawaiian snack… Foodland’s very own, Spicy Ahi Poke. I’m currently looking around the local fish markets to recreate it on my own. Thank you again to Jessie and Lisa for the extra furikake and poke-mix! It will be put to good use, I promise!!!

Cody's Poke

Cody’s Homemade Spicy Ahi Bowl

There isn’t a day I spend without thinking about my experience in Hawai’i and how it has made me a better person. The people, the ocean, the weather, the culture, and the Aloha spirit – It’s a time in my life I’ll never forget and it’s something I’ll take forward with me every day. Thank you all again for making it so special. I can’t wait for the day I can come back to Kaneohe, hopefully this time for much longer.

Aloha,
Cody

IMG_7284

By Mark Yanai

Sarah: My Co-op Experience At F&L

[one_third]
[fancy_images width=”150″ height=”150″]

image1

[/fancy_images]

[/one_third]

[two_third_last]
Sarah Agustin is a student of Northeastern University and recently returned to Boston after spending the last six months working at our Aquatic and Honolulu locations. She is the first Co-op student originally from Hawaii. Sarah wrote about her Co-op experience at F&L:

[/two_third_last]

Being born and raised on the Island of Oahu, I had an amazing opportunity to return to the islands and work as a co-op student at Fukuji and Lum Physical Therapy. Fukuji and Lum is unique in many ways as they stand by their mission statement “ to deliver fun, happiness and compassion in serving our patients and community”.  While being apart of the F & L Ohana for the past 6 months I was exposed to various settings such as: Outpatient Clinic, Aquatic Therapy, and Work Hardening Plus Program.

IMG_6691

I had the opportunity to work at the Kuakini Clinics in Honolulu and Aquatic Therapy Program in Kaneohe, each with an amazing staff.  As a student and employee I was challenged daily to work closely with patients and to better my clinical decision making skills. From observing many initial evaluations with our staff members, to assisting patients with therapeutic exercises, I can say that I have learned a tremendous amount that I know will help me become a great future physical therapist. Working closely with Art Lum, I was introduced to NAIOMT (North American Institute of Orthopedic Manual Therapy) where I was able to see first-hand some of the manual techniques and how to apply it to therapy. F & L offered many in-services to their employees to learn about new and developing fields such as Graston and Gameready. F & L also valued and stressed a personal physical fitness program. Early morning work outs challenged the staff but at the same time, it kept the staff in top physical condition.  The entire staff at F & L was open and willing to share all of their specialized knowledge with me. They answered the many questions that I had and in returned challenged me with connecting the classroom knowledge with our daily work routine. F & L Staff went above and beyond during this Co-op experience to make this entire process an amazing learning experience.

IMG_6523

Even though I was born and raised in the islands, I took advantage of being home with family and friends and exploring more of what the island has to offer. I went on many new hikes though out the islands over the past 6 months such as Kalalau on Kauai, Halawa Valley on Molokai and Waipio Valley on the Big Island.  Each of the hikes was an experience that I will never forget. Being away from home for the past year in Boston, I definitely missed my local grindz, so of course I dived right into all of the local foods that the islands had to offer and made sure I ate enough to last me the next 2 years in Boston.

Working at F&L has made a tremendous impact on my career. It was hard to leave such an amazing staff and company and I look forward to see what the company has for the future.

Aloha,

Sarah Agustin

By Mark Yanai

Meet the NE(U)w Co-Ops Part 2

northeastern-university

Connor

Aloha & Welcome Connor!

 [one_half]

Connor Pokorney is one of two new co-ops from Northeastern University that will be with us for the next six months. He joins Victoria Ruvolo as the newest members of the family. We asked Conner to tell us a little about himself and why he is interested in the physical therapy field.

What school did you attend in high school and what’s your current college?
I graduated from Nashoba Regional High School, in Bolton, MA and am currently attending Northeastern University.

[/one_half]

[one_half_last]

nashobaLogo

[/one_half_last]
What drew you to physical therapy?
I have always been interested in the medical professions and was originally drawn to physical therapy by its connection to athletics. I also enjoy the aspect of helping others help themselves to recover and get back to performing their day-to-day tasks and participating in whatever they are passionate about.

[one_half]

image1

paiai

[/one_half]

[one_half_last]

Why did you want to do your co-op in Hawaii?
I wanted to come to Hawaii to experience a culture and environment different from that of New England. I loved where I grew up, but was eager to see what else the world has to offer. Living in Hawaii allows me to do things that I love like hiking, kayaking, and golfing in a new environment, while also trying new foods, and embracing the diverse cultures here.

What has been your experience like so far?
My experience has been incredible, so far. I’ve already been to several beaches and been hiking and kayaking. I got to enjoy the 4th of July at Kailua Beach and have tried lots of new foods.

What’s the strangest thing that you’ve eaten since arriving?
I tried paiai at the farmer’s market.

[/one_half_last]

What is on your to do list while here?
While in Hawaii I hope to attend a luau, watch a surf competition on the North Shore,  go rock climbing, try surfing, snorkeling, and stand up paddle boarding.

What are your outside interests?
My biggest interests outdoors are rock climbing and backpacking, but I also really enjoy kayaking and canoeing.

image3  image1 (1)

What kind of therapist do you hope to be?
I hope to be a therapist that can motivate patients and instill a sense of positivity during their rehab. I want patients to be able to rely on themselves as much as they can rely on me to get them better.

Who is your greatest influence in your life?
The greatest influence in my life has been my grandmother. She has worked as a physical therapist her entire career and has traveled the world, visiting all seven continents. Hearing stories about her work and the gifts she brings back from across the world has inspired me to both study physical therapy and to travel; the two reasons why I am co-oping here at Fukuji & Lum.

Connor's Gma

By Mark Yanai

Meet the NE(U)w Co-Ops! Part One

northeastern-university

For the past 7 years, F&L has been in partnership with Northeastern University’s Physical Therapy Cooperative Education Program. Twice a year our organization accepts outstanding NU physical therapy students as full-time employees and gives them the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in an outpatient orthopedic clinical setting. These students primarily assist our highly qualified physical therapists with outpatient care at our clinic locations in Honolulu and Windward Oahu, including the outdoor heated pool at the Kokokahi YWCA. The journey to Hawaii will offer students tremendous life-changing experiences as they strive to balance work, play and new discoveries during their 6-month employment.

This semester brings us two new co-ops, Victoria and Connor. This week we introduce Victoria Ruvolo.

IMG_7536

What school did you attend in high school and what’s your current college?
I attended Our Lady of Mercy Academy in Syosset, NY, and I am now a student at Northeastern University in Boston, MA.

OLMA TowerOLMA Logo

What drew you to physical therapy?
I am drawn to physical therapy because I love being active and helping people. I also really like the variety of settings and ways that PT can be used to treat people.

Why did you want to do your co-op in Hawaii?
I wanted to do my co-op in Hawaii because Fukuji & Lum is a great clinic where I will have a lot of opportunities to learn and gain experience as a physical therapy student. I also love traveling and trying new things, so Hawaii seemed like the perfect choice!
[one_half]
What has been your experience like so far?
My experience has been awesome! I’ve been hiking, gone to the beach a lot, and done some exploring around the Windward side and Ala Moana. I’ve already learned so much and had a great time working at the clinic.

What’s the strangest thing that you’ve eaten since arriving? 
It’s probably a tie between purple potatoes and Poi (I’m still not really sure what it is).

[/one_half]
[one_half_last]
FullSizeRender
[/one_half_last]

What is on your to do list while here?
I definitely want to take some surfing lessons, do lots of exploring, and get a nice tan!

What are your outside interests?
I love to run, stay active, and just hang out with friends.

FullSizeRender-1

What kind of therapist do you hope to be?
I hope to be a therapist who is very knowledgeable, caring, and well-rounded. I want my patients to be able to trust and relate to me.

Who is your greatest influence in your life?
My greatest influence is my family, for always pushing me to try new things and do the best I can.

IMG_2594

Please give Victoria a warm Aloha when you see her at the pool or the Kaneohe clinic.

By Mark Yanai

The NEU Contribution

northeastern-university

“The secret to living is giving.” – Tony Robbins, Awaken the Giant Within

[one_half]

It’s that time again! Every six months we say Aloha and goodbye to the Northeastern University (NEU) Co-Ops that have been with us as part of our affiliation with their school. F&L is now in our eighth year with its partnership with Northeastern University’s Physical Therapy Cooperative Education Program.

[/one_half]

[one_half_last]

IMG_5785

[/one_half_last]

Our company accepts NEU physical therapy students as full-time employees and gives them the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in an outpatient orthopedic clinical setting. They primarily assist our highly qualified physical therapists with outpatient care at our clinic locations in Honolulu and Windward Oahu, including the outdoor heated pool at the Kokokahi YWCA. The journey to Hawaii offers NEU students tremendous life-changing experiences as they strive to balance work, play and new discoveries during their six-month employment.

Our most recent Co-ops, Cody, Sarah and Teagan, were with us from January to June and were an integral part of our team. Cody spent most of his time at WORC and was an outstanding contributor in working with injured workers. He also was an integral part of the Performance Plus Program in training our F&L membership base in a personal training. Cody proved to be a quick learner and developed skills in instructing patients with tools such as sandbags, kettlebells, and suspension trainers.

L1060424

Teagan spent her time in the Aquatics program and with our private care patients at Lower Atherton. She definitely found a love for the pool and demonstrated the unique ability to work with the wide diversity of patients that are a part of Aquatics. She expressed to me that she may have found a career path with her time spent at Kokokahi.

IMG_7230

[one_third]

IMG_7978

[/one_third]

[two_third_last]

Sarah was our first homegrown Co-op student, having graduated from Iolani Schools. She was our utility Co-op bouncing from the Windward side at the pool and our Kailua clinic to working exclusively at our Kuakini clinics. The Co-op experience is valuable for students who haven’t experienced the islands so this was the first time that we had someone who was with us primarily for the clinical experience. Look forward to reading about her experience, as well as the others, in an upcoming blog.

[/two_third_last]

F&L’s relationship with NEU’s co-op program is unique. F&L’s commitment to the physical therapy profession is one reason why we dedicate our time and resources to this relationship. Each staff member is responsible to contribute to the growth and learning of the co-ops so that the profession continues to expand to higher levels. This responsibility is not listed on anyone’s job description but it is a large part of our culture and values. There is no richer emotion in life than the sense that something you have said or done has somehow enhanced someone’s life. We recognize our staff’s contribution to the NEU program as well as the how these young professionals enhance our lives in such a short time.

IMG_3011 IMG_6376  IMG_6378

We wish the three students our best wishes and thank them for their hard work and dedication. We hope that our paths cross again and that one day we employ them again.

IMG_7284  IMG_7265

We greet our new co-ops, Connor and Victoria (look for more about them in my next blog).

IMG_7537  IMG_7536

By Mark Yanai

The New Co Ops Are Here! Meet Sarah! (Part 3)

[one_third]

[fancy_images width=”150″ height=”150″]
[image title=”Sarah Agustin, NEU Co-Op Student” caption=”Sarah Agustin, NEU Co-Op Student”]https://fukujilumpt.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/image1-e1423520370765.jpg[/image][/fancy_images]
[/one_third]
MEET SARAH!

Sarah Agustin is our third Co-op from NEU who joined F&L this January.  She is a graduate student in the physical therapy program and will soon graduate later this year. Sarah is also our very first student who is “homegrown” right here in the islands from the Nuuanu area.

Here’s a little bit about Sarah and her perspective of what it feels like to be from Hawaii and going away to the mainland for school.

What school did you attend in high school and what’s your current college?

I was born and raised in Honolulu and graduated from Iolani School in 2008. I completed my undergraduate degree at Concordia University in Irvine, CA majoring in Athletic Training. I am currently a Post-Baccalaureate of Physical Therapy at Northeastern University.

What drew you to physical therapy?

Being in the athletic training program I had the opportunity to shadow several physical therapists and see the impact they made on athletes’ lives. Seeing the process from acute care to post op, I knew this was my niche. 

Why did you want to do your Northeastern Co-op in Hawaii?

Being from Hawaii I wanted to find a way to return to the islands to give back to the community. F&L offered a wide variety of therapy services that i could learn from which will allow me to build a better foundation.

What has your experience been like so far?

I was excited to return home after being away for a year to enjoy warm weather, ono grinds, and family and friends. I am excited to show the Co-op students what Hawaii has to offer.

What have you missed about Hawaii that you realized being away for college?

Being away for college I realized how lucky I was to live in Hawaii. I really missed the variety of foods and the Aloha spirit. I missed being able to wear my “rubbah slippahs” daily and not worry about the weather today, tomorrow or the next day.

What was the first thing that you were looking forward to eating when you came home?

Right off the plane my first stop was Nimitz BBQ for meat jun packed with a variety of Korean vegetables.  Over the next several weeks I enjoyed Grandma’s Filipino food, Poke bowls, and Helena’s Hawaiian food.

Nimitz BBq Helenas-Kitchen-James-Okemura

Being the first Co-op from NEU to return to Hawaii at F&L, what are you hoping to find out about the experience?

During the first month at F&L I have witnessed a variety of skills and extensive knowledge throughout the staff.  I am hoping to gain a better understanding of each of their specialties and how I can apply it to my future career. Such as: Graston techniques, manual therapy, and aquatics.

What’s been unique about F&L from your other experience in physical therapy clinics?

F&L is unique in that they focus on creating relationships not only between their employees but also with their patients. I really value that F&L embraces change, encourages growth, and challenges me to grow in my profession.

What is on your to do list while here in the Islands?

On my bucket list is to do many different hikes but most of all tackling Kalalau on Kauai.  I also want to leave this Co-op experience with a better understanding of our profession.

What are your interests outside of school and work?

I love hiking, going to the beach, and spending quality time with my Ohana. I also love staying active and seeking new adventures.
Kaneohe
What kind of therapist do you hope to be?

I hope to be a therapist that has a vast understanding of various modes of physical therapy techniques. I have an interest in specializing in hand therapy and prosthetics.

Who is your greatest influence in your life?

My greatest influence is my parents who have instilled the importance of a good work ethic. They have encouraged me to set high goals and to never give up.

family 2

By Mark Yanai

The New PT Co-Ops are here! Meet Teagan (Part 2)

MEET TEAGAN!
[one_third]

[fancy_images width=”150″ height=”150″]
[image title=”Teagan Ferguson, NEU Co-Op Student” caption=”Teagan Ferguson, NEU Co-Op Student”]https://fukujilumpt.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cody-e1422407033832.jpg[/image][/fancy_images]
[/one_third]
[two_third_last]
Teagan Ferguson is studying to become a physical therapist and is in her 4th year at Northeastern’s Physical Therapy program. She is returning to the islands to work for F&L as part of her school’s Co-Op program. Teagan is currently working at our Kaneohe Clinic and Aquatic Pool located at the Kokokahi YWCA.

Teagan told us about being in the physical therapy field and her experience in Hawaii these past few weeks.

What school did you attend in high school and what’s your current college?
I attended Haddam Killingworth High School in Higganum CT before graduating and continuing my education at Northeastern University.

What drew you to physical therapy?
In high school I really liked engineering but knew I wanted to go into the medical field. Physical therapy was a mix between the two worlds for me and has turned out to be a pretty good fit.

Why did you want to do your Northeastern Co-Op in Hawaii?
I knew I wanted to do my co-op in Hawaii because it’s a place I’d love to return to after school. I’ve never really had a home town since I’ve moved a lot but Hawaii was where I was born. Since part of my family returned to the island it seemed like a good time to come back and see how things have changed.

What has your experience been like so far?
My experience so far has been amazing. I love that I can work in both aquatic and land therapy here and the PTs and PTAs that I’m working with are great teachers. All of the patients I’ve worked with are very friendly and I’m excited to enjoy the rest of my co-op.

What’s the strangest thing that you’ve eaten since arriving?
The strangest thing I’ve eaten here is probably a Spam Musubi. It’s one thing I’d never had before and didn’t think I’d like.

What is on your to do list while here in the islands?
Visiting my family and taking my nephew to Hanama Bay are two big things on my to do list. I also plan on exploring more of the windward side of the island and spending some time by North Shore.

What are your interests outside of school and work?
Outside of work I enjoy taking photos of nature and animals as well as playing video games. Since being here I’ve really come to enjoy kayaking as well.

What kind of therapist do you hope to be?
I would love to be an outpatient physical therapist and I’d like to do aquatic therapy at least part of the time.

Who is your greatest influence in your life?
My greatest influence is my mother as she’s always teaching us to both set big goals for ourselves and work out butts off to achieve them. She’s very supportive and let’s us make our own choices because she knows different people have different paths to being successful.

teagan & mom

Please give Teagana a warm Aloha when you see her at the pool or the Kaneohe clinic.
Next blog post: Meet Sarah!