Cambridge, Mass. (February 17) – In the next installment of the "Meet the Coaches and Staff" series by the Department of Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation (DAPER), we spotlight associate head athletic trainer Jess Rooney Gallagher, who enters her 14th season at MIT.
In addition to this written piece, watch the video below to learn more about our outstanding staff in DAPER and what it's like to be part of the MIT community.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Medway, Massachusetts. It's a small little town not far from Gillette Stadium.
How have your responsibilities as an athletic trainer changed since March? What is something you didn't think you would become knowledgeable about?
I never thought I would have to do virtual consultations and virtual appointments. So, doing an evaluation with a student-athlete over Zoom or FaceTime has been a new learning opportunity for me. I'm creating home rehab programs based on each student-athlete's living situation and the equipment they may or may not have available to them. Obviously, just becoming proficient in Zoom, Microsoft Teams and other platforms for working remotely.
What is your favorite book?
Anything written by Nicholas Sparks.
What is the last book you read?
"City of Girls" by Elizabeth Gilbert.
Who are your favorite musicians?
Mumford and Sons, Kings of Leon, Dave Matthews Band, and Foo Fighters.
Which podcasts do you listen to?
I'm currently listening to "Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe."
What activities, new or revisited, have you been doing since we've been working from home?
I go for a walk every day since this started and I've done puzzles. I've been doing a lot of personal and professional development through readings and webinars. I purchased a spin bike, so I've had the opportunity to work out on my spin bike regularly.
What is your favorite professional sports team?
The Patriots.
Which profession would you have pursued if you hadn't decided to become an athletic trainer?
I really wanted to be an accountant. So, I think I would do that or other options would be a psychologist or a personal shopper.
Which shows have you started watching since we've been working remotely?
Schitt's Creek, The Umbrella Academy, and Dawson's Creek.
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