For Kirsten Major, a second-year Bachelor of Kinesiology (BKin) student, the path to the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education began at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. What started as hobbies to keep herself busy turned into an interest in holistic health.
“During COVID, I got really into just being active, working out, nutrition and making my own recipes,” she says. “A lot of the holistic health kind of things got me into kinesiology.”
Though her dedication to physical and mental health ramped up when the world slowed down, she’s also been practising Taekwondo since she was a child, achieving a second-degree black belt and becoming an instructor more recently.
But the question remains: Why KPE specifically?
“The welcoming community at KPE was what drew me into the program, especially on Fall Campus Day,” she says. “All of the upper years were really friendly to me, and I wanted to be in that space as well and help people who were coming in.”
Now a KPE student ambassador herself, she gets to be that friendly face and resource for prospective students.
“Being a KPE student ambassador gives upper year students the chance to showcase their KPE community, provide insight on their experience, and share invaluable advice to prospective and incoming students,” says Stephanie Convery, KPE’s recruitment and admissions officer.
When Kirsten isn’t studying or instructing, she’s performing with the Hart House Symphonic Band, a group of student musicians who play classical and contemporary music. Having played the flute since she was 10, she set out to find a way to continue playing in university.
As for her future plans, she’s taking the time to explore as many opportunities as she can. Health care is top of mind, but she’s still figuring out what interests her the most and tries not to stress too much about what comes her way — something she encourages new BKin students to do as well.
“I was stressing a lot when I came into university, thinking everything had to be perfect — my grades, making friends, everything. But everything eventually just comes naturally. You get into your groove. Don’t overthink it.”
KINtroductions is an ongoing series featuring BKin students, their experience at KPE and their future aspirations.