Jude Karrout

I fell in love with the idea that movement is medicine. That no matter how unwell someone may feel, when approached correctly, movement has the power to heal. Physiotherapy is often limited to massage and exercise, but it is so much more complex. It’s education, empathy, and integrity. It’s the connection between the mind, nerves, muscles, body, and fascia. Movement, done in the right way and at the right time can be the medicine itself.

The MNB (Musculoskeletal system, Nervous system and Bioelectricity) module was probably the most challenging yet also the most interesting module I studied during first semester of foundation year. I was introduced to surface level anatomy, physiology and bioelectricity, which were topics entirely new to me, but also extremely relevant to physiotherapy. I particularly remember my bone remodelling lecture sparking so much interest in me. The module introduced concepts that I wasn't familiar with, such as the embryology of the nervous system, as well as how various radiological imaging distinguishes between different types of tissues in the human body.

There are so many amazing memories that I've made throughout my first year. Arabian Nights, Ortho Jeopardy, late night netball games but my favourite would probably be meeting my fellow Dabke performers rehearsing before Arabian nights. I met a lot of people during Dabke practice that are now good friends of mine and we had good laughs during our practices. When I first came to university, I thought I had to do everything—join every society, meet everyone, hit the gym, cook, keep my grades up... I realised quickly that university is always busy. There will always be a lecture to catch up on, laundry to do, or an assignment waiting. You don’t need to do it all at once.

Take it easy on yourself. It’s okay to rest. Focus on building small, consistent habits that make your life better. Do things at your own pace, not just because you feel like you “should.” Be kind to yourself, stay true to who you are, and let the rest fall into place.

One day I’d love to be a travel physio – helping people all over the world and picking up new languages along the way.