Morgan Petro was one of the first students to enter the Exercise Science Program at Seton Hill. While earning her bachelor’s degree, she was also a member of Seton Hill’s track and cross-country teams. After graduating from Seton Hill in 2016, she went on to earn her doctorate degree in physical therapy at Slippery Rock. She’s just started her career, and is already working toward a sports specialty certification. Below, she provides information about her experience at Seton Hill and in the field.

What made you decide to enroll in Seton Hill’s Exercise Science Program?

When I decided to study at Seton Hill, the Exercise Science Program did not exist yet. It wasn't until the end of my sophomore year that I took my first class in the program, Intro to Exercise Science. I signed up as a biology major prior to that, and I remember a professor asking me if I would be interested in the exercise science field. I wasn't 100% sure about it then, but, after my first course, I was really happy I made the switch.

More specifically, why did you choose Seton Hill over other prospective colleges?

I chose Seton Hill over other colleges because I loved the atmosphere. The staff and students are all very welcoming and the smaller class sizes allowed me to get the most out of my education. Seton Hill quickly became home to me.

Did you find that Seton Hill’s program prepared you for graduate school? 

Yes, Seton Hill's program definitely prepared me for physical therapy school. I had a greater understanding of exercise prescription, fitness testing, and learned how to work with many patient populations. I gained critical thinking skills and hands-on experience while at Seton Hill, which helped me as I adjusted to grad school.

What do you love most about track and cross-country?

I loved competing in track and cross-country because each and every race was a chance for me to push myself to the limits. I always tried to leave everything on the track and to get better each time.

Why did you want to go into exercise science?

I wanted to get into exercise science because I have a passion for fitness, love learning about anatomy and physiology, and enjoy working closely with others to help them achieve their goals.

Which area of concentration did you go into?

I went through the clinical track.

Can you tell me about your current job?

Currently, I work as a physical therapist at Resurgent Sports Rehab in Fairfax, VA. I am studying to obtain my sports specialty certification. I work in a cash-based clinic, where I typically see high-level athletes looking to return to many different sports (running, triathlons, ice hockey, rock climbing, competitive cheerleading and more).

Is there anything else you’d like to share about SHU?

Seton Hill will always have a special place in my heart. It was at SHU where I gained confidence in myself and really found the field that I am so passionate about today. I still stay in touch with Dr. Larouere, the program coordinator, to this day and enjoy visiting the campus whenever I am in town.