News

Physiotherapy a family affair

Physiotherapy is the family business for three brothers at Australian Catholic University.

First-year student Te Kahui Nolan is following in the footsteps of his older brothers Waka and Ihaka by studying physiotherapy, continuing a proud tradition of ACU students pursuing a family profession.

The 20-year-old chose ACU because of its reputation for providing a great culture for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and the fantastic facilities for studying health sciences.

Te Kahui said just being accepted into the course was a memorable moment and studying physiotherapy, just like his brothers, has been his goal for many years.

“I want to be a physiotherapist because I love learning about the body, how to maintain and treat it and I really love interacting with people,” he said.

“What I like most about my studies is discovering the positive effect I can have on people, to be able to know the way the body works, and help others understand how to look after their own bodies.

“It is really positive that my brothers are studying the same course. I am the youngest and if I need help understanding certain content or just general info about uni being able to approach my brothers for advice and tips is fantastic. Most other students aren’t able to do that.”

Te Kahui already has a plan in place for life after university.

“My plan is to go into the workforce, gain experience, enhance my skills as physiotherapist and hopefully one day own my own business,” he said.

ACU is committed to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students like Te Kahui and his brothers throughout their educational journey.

Indigenous Higher Education Units on ACU campuses are welcoming, culturally safe and supportive places where students can meet fellow Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff, make friends, and get information, advice and support.

Students have the choice of studying Physiotherapy at an ACU campus in North Sydney, Ballarat or Brisbane. There are a number of other degrees in health sciences, education and arts, law and business, and theology and philosophy at one of ACU’s seven campuses or online. ACU’s Away from Base program supports distance students in education, midwifery, and business.