Brock Sports Medicine (BSM) student therapist Brianna Bruni (BKin 24) has spent the past few years navigating a journey of self-discovery, professional growth and personal fulfilment at Brock.

As she crossed the stage on Wednesday, June 12 during the University’s 115th Convocation, Bruni reflected on the experiences and the faculty, staff and fellow students who have shaped her path.

Growing up in Sault Ste. Marie, Bruni knew she would need to leave her hometown to pursue her passion for kinesiology.

Despite numerous options closer to home, she chose Brock because of its sense of community and welcoming atmosphere.

“I chose Brock because it reminded me of home,” she says. “It was the feeling I had walking around campus that drew me here. It was different from what I was used to, but also very familiar.”

Bruni’s time at Brock was not without challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a halt during her undergraduate studies, disrupting her education and necessitating an extension of her degree.

“COVID-19 hit in the middle of my time at Brock, which was a pivotal moment in my undergrad. I felt like I had lost an important transitional part of my education,” Bruni said.

However, she adapted by taking extra time to regain balance and fully enjoy her academic journey.

Her involvement with BSM was another turning point in her university experience. Initially drawn to the internship because of her desire to help student-athletes and work in a team environment, Bruni started working with the men’s basketball team in 2021.

“It was full go right from my first day. Being a new intern and working with such an intense, high-demand team was nerve-racking, but it was the best way for me to learn and get comfortable in my position,” she said.

She gained invaluable experience over the next three years and spent her final year working with the men’s rugby team with the support of Lead Athletic Therapist Kelsey Marshall.

The experience ignited Bruni’s interest in athletic therapy.

“Kelsey’s confidence in me allowed me to find my passion,” Bruni said. “She took me out of my comfort zone and encouraged me to join the rugby squad in 2023. Looking back now, I couldn’t imagine missing out on an experience like that.”

Bruni’s journey was not without its sacrifices. Balancing a demanding internship with academic responsibilities meant less time visiting her family back in northern Ontario.

“Not being able to visit home as much was a hard adjustment. I always envied friends who could drive home on a weekend,” she said.

While challenging, these experiences have prepared Bruni for the realities of a career in athletic therapy, where long hours and constant travel are often the norm.

Her skill and dedication have paid off. She received the Joseph P. Kenny Student Therapist Award of Excellence at the Brock Badgers Awards Gala in March. The award recognizes an exemplary student therapist who consistently demonstrates leadership and commitment by actively participating in practices and games.

Bruni was commended on providing top-notch taping, treatment and rehabilitation for student-athletes as well as maintaining excellent communication with peers and the head coach.

Marshall’s mentorship has been instrumental in Bruni’s development.

“Kelsey has given me the confidence to tackle any roadblock. She believes in her students and encourages us to overcome challenges,” added Bruni. “The person I was in 2021 compared to who I am now is unrecognizable, and I thank Kelsey for shaping my professional growth.”

She plans to complete a Master of Science in Athletic Training at the University of Buffalo and pursue her lifelong dream of working in Division I National Collegiate Athletic Association basketball. She hopes to eventually work in a professional league.

Reflecting on her time at Brock, Bruni feels a deep sense of gratitude.

“Brock makes me think about all the life-altering personal growth I went through during these years,” Bruni said. “I can’t help but feel grateful for the best friends and memories Brock has brought me.”