Scott Kilker

Health Science and Physiology

Sligo

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what led you to choosing your course:

From an early age, I was interested in sports and exercise, and I was always curious about how the human body works. A few years ahead of me in secondary school, some of my friends studied Health Science and Physiology in Sligo and told me about the potential of pursuing a career in Physiotherapy through this degree. Since it can be tough to choose a career path at a young age, I wanted to keep my options open. I knew I wanted a career involving health and fitness, but I was also considering paths in Strength and Conditioning or Human Nutrition. After attending an open day, I gained a better understanding of the course and the University.

What specifically about the course did you particularly enjoy?

I appreciated the breadth of the course, as it provided a taste of many different subjects. I particularly enjoyed the modules on Determinants of Health, Human Anatomy and Physiology, and Exercise Physiology. I found that my classmates were very like-minded, and as a group, we shared many similarities, including a passion for playing sports and a commitment to maintaining our health and fitness.

What is the best thing about the course that you think new applicants should know?

One of the best aspects of the course is its practical elements. Personally, I prefer a hands-on approach to learning, while there are plenty of lectures, the opportunity to apply what we learn in practical classes is invaluable.

Any favourite modules during your time studying?

Some of my favourite modules were Resistance Training and Program Design, Human Anatomy and Physiology, and Exercise Physiology. I also enjoyed learning about the holistic approach to health through modules like Determinants of Health and Health Promotion, and found Health Psychology particularly interesting. For my final-year research project, I conducted qualitative research on concussion knowledge and attitudes among underage Gaelic football coaches. This project was challenging but very helpful for me, as I still use it in my career today when working pitch side or with patients following concussion return-to-play protocols.

What key skills did you learn while studying at ATU Sligo that have influenced your career?

Many of our modules focused on developing communication skills, especially during class presentations. Effective communication is also crucial when collaborating on group projects to achieve the best results. In my current role, strong communication skills are essential for one-on-one physiotherapy consultations and for facilitating group exercise classes. Additionally, learning about anatomy in this course gave me a head start in my Physiotherapy degree.

Can you share some details of your career path or further studies to date?

After graduating from ATU Sligo in 2018, I began my Physiotherapy studies at York St John University in the United Kingdom. Throughout that degree, I completed student placements in hospitals and community settings, and I also worked in a gym providing exercise classes for recovering cancer patients.
After graduating, I worked in private practice for a year in Manchester as a Musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapist while also working part-time for Oldham Athletic FC Academy. In October 2022, I moved to Australia, where I worked as an MSK Physiotherapist at Total Physiotherapy in Sydney and served as the lead Physiotherapist for New South Wales GAA medical services.
I later relocated to Cairns, Queensland, to fulfil regional requirements for my second-year working holiday visa. I worked at Cairns Base Hospital as a relief physiotherapist and ended up really enjoying the lifestyle that Cairns has to offer. Consequently, I applied for a position in private practice at AG physio and have been working there since December 2023.

What does your current role involve?

On average, I see anywhere from 35 to 50 patients per week for one-on-one physiotherapy sessions. My role involves assessing, diagnosing, planning, and managing patient care. Some treatments include hands-on approaches such as massage and dry needling/acupuncture when appropriate. However, the majority of my work focuses on creating personalised home exercise programs tailored to each patient’s specific needs. I work with a wide range of patients, from athletes competing in field-based sports or competitive endurance sports to someone who just wants to be able to walk pain-free on their weekly trip to the supermarket. I also provide advice on managing injuries or conditions, including modifications for physical activity and exercise. 

In some cases, I may refer patients to other medical services, such as their GP, the Emergency Department, sports doctor, or dietitian. Additionally, I often conduct group exercise classes for elderly patients and those with osteoporosis. This year, I hope to get back involved in pitch-side physiotherapy work with local AFL and GAA teams.

What advice would you share with our current students considering a career in your field?

Physiotherapy is a broad field with diverse career paths, so take the time to research its many specialties. Many people, including myself, initially assume it’s mainly about working with sports teams, but physiotherapy offers much more. You can specialise in areas like orthopaedics, neurology, cardiovascular & pulmonary care, paediatrics, geriatrics, women’s health, vestibular rehabilitation, and chronic pain management. To find the best fit for you, try to arrange shadowing experiences with a physiotherapist during school, or seek opportunities in your community to gain hands-on insight.

What did you like best about studying at ATU Sligo?

What I loved most about studying at ATU Sligo was how close the campus and accommodation were to Sligo town, making everything so accessible. The close-knit community meant I got to know my lecturers well, which really boosted my learning and confidence—something not all universities can offer. Plus, through my course, Freshers and Sigerson Gaelic Football, I made lifelong friends who I still talk to on a daily basis.

What advice would you give a first-year student starting at ATU Sligo?

There will be plenty of ups and downs on the journey. My advice to a first-year student at ATU Sligo is to prioritise staying active and taking care of your health and fitness. Balance is key, so make sure to enjoy the social side when the time is right! Work hard, as the first few weeks can be challenging in such a new environment, but don’t hesitate to ask for help—whether it’s academic or personal. Reach out to friends, classmates, teammates, or lecturers; they’re all there to support you.