Finding victory in hands-on studies

Growing up in seaside Mornington Peninsula, Sam Dunn moved to the US to experience his first big dream – completing a sport and exercise science degree, travelling the States and playing football (soccer).

After returning home, Sam started his own personal training business and became interested in strength and conditioning. He gained valuable experience at a local VFL club, which increased his enthusiasm to enter the industry via postgraduate studies.

Sam shares here why he chose VU, and how the University is giving him a unique career advantage.

“When I was considering universities, I attended a few open days and ultimately VU stood out as the most appealing, particularly for its connections with leading sporting organisations.

I enrolled in VU’s Master of Sports Science (Football Performance) and I’m benefiting from industry experience and staff support already.

I’ve been thrown right into the industry from the start, and I’m loving it!

My internship at Melbourne Victory has been an amazing experience for my learning within the sports science and strength and conditioning field.

I’ve been creating programs, writing up first-team reports and doing on-field work. I feel invested in the team which drives me to do more each day.

Another great feature of VU is its support, and open communication between students and lecturers. There is always an extra effort from the staff to help you do your best in the coursework and in finding a job after the course. The information we receive about career opportunities is constant and insightful.

While I study and complete my internship, I’m also managing to continue working as a mobile personal trainer out of a recreational centre, and through my own PT business.”

Course studied

• Master of Sport Science (Football Performance), now offered as Master of Sport and Exercise Science.