I had the pleasure to sit down with our 2014 Dianne Polseno Scholarship 1st Place Winner, Cathrine Thibault, and got to know a little more about her and her practice. Most importantly, she wanted to encourage massage therapists graduating this year to apply for the 2015 Dianne Polseno Scholarship Awards. Did you know we have $1,000 and $500 (PLUS A YEAR OF FREE AMTA MEMBERSHIP!) just waiting for some brilliant and talented souls to take home? Here's what Cathrine had to say about how the scholarship made an impact on her practice.
Q. How did you hear about the Dianne Polseno Scholarship?
A. I was enrolled as a student at Bancroft School of Massage Therapy when I heard about the Dianne Polseno Scholarship. The Admissions Director, Judie Morin, approached me and explained she thought it would be a fantastic idea for me to share my story by applying for the scholarship. She encouraged me by stating she would write a letter of recommendation to support my effort if I chose to apply. That was all the encouragement I needed! I have continued to thank Judie for believing in me and for lifting me up with her encouragement.
Q. What was the first thing you did with your Scholarship Award?
A. When I received the Scholarship Award I immediately sent Judie flowers to thank her for suggesting that I apply to the scholarship. If it weren't for Judie, I would not have known about it. Thank you, Judie! I also invested the award into my new massage therapy clinic, which had not yet opened. It provided me with the opportunity to cover the cost of one Oakworks Clinician Stationary table as I had three total to purchase.
Q. How did the Award make an impact on your massage therapy practice?
A. The Award has had a very positive impact on my massage therapy practice. I have been able to share my scholarship essay with my clients which helps them learn more about me and learn more about why I'm so passionate about advancing the massage therapy career field. I have also included the scholarship essay in my professional portfolio packages that I deliver to medical professionals in my area. This helps them understand that I'm serious about massage and committed to making a difference in my community.
Q. What would you like to say to this year's applicants?
A. I would encourage this year's applicants to invest time in applying for the scholarship as it will provide them with the opportunity to communicate their ideas and passion for why they've chosen to work in this dynamic career field. Dianne Polseno was legendary and her contributions continue to impact us all. Take time to pause and share how you would like to be remembered. Help others learn why you're unique and how you challenge yourself every day to be your best.
Q. Why is it important for people to contribute to the Dianne Polseno Scholarship Fund?
A. It is important for people to contribute to the Dianne Polseno Scholarship Fund because it helps keep Dianne's memory alive in our hearts and our hands as we work with our clients. She challenged each of us to be our best and work in a manner that would continue to accelerate the advancement of the massage therapy career field. As she stated, "we are changing the world, one massage at a time." Make the commitment to invest in this scholarship fund and know that you are assisting upcoming massage therapists in their journey to make a difference.