THINKING IT THROUGH Sydney knew she wanted a career that allowed her to be around active people, maybe
even athletes. She had played sports in high school, but she knew she wouldn't have
the skills to play at the next level. During her playing days she had received injuries
that were treated by the school's athletic trainer. She had been impressed by the ath-
letic trainer's knowledge and noted how much he seemed to eryoy his job. Sydney
thought that she might like to be an athletic trainer, but realized that becoming a
strength and conditioning specialist, physical therapist, family practice physician,
orthopedic surgeon, or matritionist might be equally exciting.
What characteristics make a person well-suited to one of these careers?
What types of classes should Sydney take that would benefit her in the pur-
suit of any one of these careers? How can she obtain information that will
help her decide which career to pursue?