Graduate Program: Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT)
Michael Phifer ’22 MSAT can describe Lynchburg’s Master of Science in Athletic Training program in three words: supportive, dedicated, and hardworking.
A big part of that is the faculty.
“What makes it unique is that we’re treated like family here and they’re very supportive,” Phifer, now the head athletic trainer at Nelson County High School, said.
“Anything we need they’re willing to help us [with], but they’re also willing to push us out of our comfort zone so we can grow and move forward.”
He added that he would tell prospective students “they are getting a well-qualified staff” at Lynchburg “that is willing to do anything to help them push the AT profession forward, but… it’s going to be tough love and they’re going to force you to grow up and learn and be the best you can be.”
As an MSAT student, Phifer had clinical rotations at the University of Lynchburg, Randolph College, Liberty University, Heritage High School, and Woodberry Forest, a private boy’s school in Madison County, Virginia.
“One memorable learning experience I… had was during one of my rotations,” he said. “The precept was talking to me about being comfortable being uncomfortable, especially in the athletic training profession, because that’s the only way you’ll grow and push forward and try to be the best you can be.”
