An OP1 school student and self-confessed fitness fanatic from Bundaberg will satisfy her keen interest in health by studying Clinical Exercise Science at USC Sunshine Coast.

Bundaberg State High School dux of 2016 Teagan Gleeson said her goal was to become an accredited exercise physiologist working with hospital patients to prevent disease, treat acute injuries and manage long-term diseases.

“Medicine didn’t interest me, however I have always wanted to do something in the health field,” said Teagan, whose mother is a nurse and brother is studying to become a paramedic.

The 17-year-old could not decide which area of health to study until she found USC’s Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Science, which includes subjects in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, biomechanics, psychology, motor learning and sports nutrition.

“The degree seemed interesting and I felt it suited my sporting and academic interests.”

Teagan excelled at chemistry and biology in Year 12, receiving the top academic achievement award for those subjects, as well as ancient history and English.

“I am pretty big into exercise, and although it is mainly only the gym now, I played volleyball, netball and touch in interschool sport,” she said.

She had considered studying a similar degree at a Brisbane university, but found the combination of USC’s offering and the lifestyle of the Sunshine Coast more appealing.

“I love the beach, so being able to study close to it is pretty exciting,” said Teagan, who has moved into a student accommodation complex next to the Sippy Downs campus ahead of the start of Semester 1 on Monday 27 February.

“The thing I am most looking forward to is the opportunity to meet like-minded people.”

For application and enrolment information, visit www.usc.edu.au/learn.

— Clare McKay