Four students from Seton Hall University’s Bachelor of Science in Interprofessional Health Sciences program attended the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine Conference in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with Program Director Jerry-Thomas Monaco in November 2025. The event brought together students, researchers, clinicians and professionals to discuss current research and career opportunities within exercise science and sports medicine.
The conference provided the undergraduate attendees with their first experience at a large-scale professional gathering focused on exercise science. Sessions covered topics such as injury analysis, exercise prescription, clinical applications and pathways for certification. Students were able to connect research findings directly to practical uses within their field.
Gianna Marie Tavares, a sophomore planning a career in physical therapy, said: “Presentations on exercise prescription, injury prevention and human performance were particularly engaging because they directly relate to my academic interests and potential career path.”
Samantha Wong, a senior student at Seton Hall University, said: “Although we are undergraduate students, we were not treated differently from anyone else.”
The event also offered guidance for those preparing for graduate programs. Caroline Rivers, a junior student preparing her application for physical therapy programs noted: “Speaking with representatives from different universities was especially meaningful as I prepare to apply to physical therapy programs. It helped me feel more confident and informed about the next steps.”
Program Director Monaco presented his own research at the conference on surf therapy for children with developmental delays. He said: “All the students who attended asked me how they can present on a topic associated with the MARC–ACSM Conference to further advance their careers. The IPHS faculty and I are developing a faculty-student research project with the goal of having Seton Hall students participate in the conference next year.”
Monaco added: “The IPHS students appreciated the opportunity to attend the 2025 MARC–ACSM Conference. It has motivated them to pursue careers in the health sciences field.”
