Grady Webb has taken a more interesting path than most people before deciding to study at the UCOL | Te Pūkenga Manawatū campus.

The 30-year-old has had a five-year career in the NZ Defence Force as an Ammunitions Technician and worked as a camera operator in a drainage business before turning his focus in a totally new direction.

“I was ready for a new challenge. I have always enjoyed the gym environment and working with others to achieve fitness goals, so I thought I’d look at what was available in that field,” he says.

In his third year of a Bachelor of Applied Science (Exercise and Wellness),  Grady majored in the Physical Health and Wellness area of the degree. This allowed him to develop skills and knowledge to use exercise to assist people in managing common health risks.

Grady had a six-month placement at Palmerston North’s TBI Health - supervised by Exercise Therapist Sarah Jowsey, who runs the DHB funded Spinal Rehabilitation Programme. This placement wraps up Grady’s degree. He really enjoyed the placement within the tight-knit and friendly team. Grady says he has learned a lot by sitting in on consultations, interacting with clients, and observing Physiotherapy sessions.

Exercise Therapist, Sarah Jowsie, says it is a win-win situation having Grady working at the clinic.

“Having him here means we can treat more people as we gradually develop his role and increase his responsibilities. And he benefits by gaining valuable experience and confidence in a clinical environment.”