Exercise Science Club Builds Community and Career Readiness Among NDSU Students

The Exercise Science Club at North Dakota State University, led by junior Kyan Burns, gives students hands-on opportunities to explore careers in exercise science through guest speakers, volunteer events and monthly informational meetings. This once-small academic organization has since grown to nearly 200 members, all sharing an interest in the field of exercise science.

The student organization focuses on connecting undergraduates with real‑world experience, offering exposure to careers in exercise science and kinesiology and serving as a resource for students outside of the classroom. Additionally, the club aims to “create leadership opportunities for students in the exercise science program,” according to the club’s constitution. This goal is upheld in both its programming as well as its student-led structure.

Career Exposure

The club functions as both a social outlet and an early career network, helping students gain experience and exposure within the world of exercise science. Between volunteer hours, internships and observations, the club provides many pathways for career exploration and development. This academic club creates a space for students to make real connections and gain traction toward their future careers.

Back in October, the club hosted a guest speaker event featuring Tara Haj, the program director and professor at the University of Jamestown Physical Therapy Program in Fargo, N.D. Haj is an accredited doctor of both physical therapy and education. Similar guest speaker events are to come with the next scheduled for early April.

Leadership and Student Involvement

Burns articulates the importance of the club to NDSU: “This club … helps enhance student engagement and connect professionals with students who might be interested in their job. This is a good club to get involved with if you are interested in any jobs involving exercise science or kinesiology.”

Burns also shared his reason for running the club: “I became the president of this club because it will help further my experience and knowledge within the exercise science field. It will also help me connect with my fellow classmates more, as well as get connections with fellow professionals in the field.” The club has 191 confirmed members on MyNDSU, a tally that suggests strong interest across campus.

Meeting Information

The club’s next meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 18, at 5:30 p.m. within the Memorial Union of NDSU. The meeting intends to present local job and observation opportunities here in Fargo, N.D. for members to get involved in and propel their careers.

For students seeking experience, mentorship or an opportunity to get involved on campus, this club offers a direct path toward building a future career in the field of exercise science.

For more information on the club, reach out to kyan.burns@ndsu.edu or follow the organization’s Instagram page, @ndsuexercisescienceclub, for future meetings!