Gavin Weltz

Responsibilities

Monitored patients’ heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG during exercise Helped lead and supervise safe exercise sessions Took patient vitals and assisted with intake assessments Documented patient progress in the medical record Taught patients how to exercise safely at home and recognize symptoms Communicated patient changes to physiologists and nurses Kept equipment clean and ready for use Assisted with emergency situations when needed

Accomplishments

Successfully monitored and supported dozens of cardiac rehab patients during exercise Built strong rapport with patients and helped many progress toward graduation Improved my skills in taking vitals and reading ECG rhythms Took on extra responsibilities when staff were out or transitioned to new positions Contributed to smooth daily operations by setting up equipment and preparing sessions Gained hands-on experience working with physiologists and nurses in a clinical setting Helped educate patients on safe exercise, symptoms, and heart-healthy habits Demonstrated reliability, professionalism, and strong patient-care communication skills

Learning experience

The importance of clear, calm communication—patients trust you more when you explain things simply and confidently. How to stay composed under pressure, especially when a patient shows concerning symptoms or abnormal vitals. That every patient progresses differently, and patience is essential in cardiac rehab. The value of teamwork—physiologists, nurses, and students rely on each other to keep patients safe. How much small details matter, like accurate vitals, proper documentation, and quick reporting of changes. The impact of building rapport, since encouragement can greatly improve a patient’s effort and confidence. That clinical work requires a balance of technical skill and empathy—patients respond best when they feel supported.

What advice would you give?

Get as much hands-on experience as you can—internships, shadowing, and volunteer work will teach you more than any textbook. Build strong communication and people skills; you’ll work with clients, patients, and professionals every day. Take your science courses seriously—anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics become the foundation for everything you do later. Don’t be afraid to ask questions during labs, clinical rotations, or internships; the staff want you to learn. Prioritize professionalism—show up on time, be prepared, and treat every opportunity like a job interview. Network early with faculty, supervisors, and clinicians; these relationships lead to jobs and recommendations. Explore different career paths within kinesiology—cardiac rehab, PT, OT, strength and conditioning, nursing, and public health—to figure out what fits you best.