We are so pleased to celebrate Larisa as Physiopedia’s Top Contributor for December! A dedicated mentor and educator Larisa has been sharing her knowledge and experience with us for the past 3 years, passionately inspiring healthcare professionals and guiding educators to improve their teaching skills.
Learn more as Larisa shares insights into her journey, the professional passions that drive her, and her advice for aspiring allied health professionals. She also talks about the challenges of working across global time zones and the joy of collaborating with the diverse and positive Physiopedia community.
Join us in recognising Larisa’s amazing contributions and how her work inspires everyone around her. Read more about her story and let her inspire you as she inspires us!
Your name:
Larisa Hoffman
Time active with Physiopedia:
I have been with Physiopedia for 3 years.
Current role with Physiopedia:
Mentor for the Academic Programme Reflection Tool
Where did you go to university/college?
University of Miami
Where do you work?
Regis University
Describe your role:
I am an educator and mentor for physiotherapists. I really enjoy mentoring and collaborating with others. I am passionate about helping educators develop and refine their teaching skills.
What is the most rewarding part of being a clinician, or working with Physiopedia?
I love being part of Physiopedia. I enjoy collaborating with many different people and learning from and about others.
What are some of the more challenging aspects of your work?
Time. I want more time. I truly enjoy spending time with my colleagues at Physiopedia and with participants (from around the world) who use Physiopedia. Our time is so precious, and our collaborators live in different time zones across the globe. My favourite activity is an in-person meeting, where we can spend time together.
What are some of your professional passions?
I truly enjoy mentoring others. One of the most rewarding aspects of being a mentor is helping my mentees reflect on their strengths and challenges, and then supporting them in identifying new ways to improve. Being a Physiopedia mentor allows me to focus on my professional passion.
What are a few of your personal passions?
I enjoy going on adventures with my family. I like being outdoors, hiking, playing, and enjoying the mountains.
What would be your advice to a newly graduating physiotherapist or professional?
I have been fortunate to have had many mentors throughout my life, both professionally and personally. They have all been extremely generous with their time and expertise, and I am deeply grateful for their guidance and support. These mentors have made me a better physiotherapist and a better educator, and I would not be where I am today without them. The key is to find someone who is a good fit for you.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I would like to continue doing what I am doing now: mentoring and teaching. I really enjoy the personal relationships involved in mentoring. Teaching provides me with personal satisfaction, and I value the personal relationships that develop with my students.
What are the best things about being part of the Physiopedia team?
The positive community. I love the people who join this team and commit to the mission.
How has being a Physiopedia team member helped your professional development and career progression?
I have learned so much from this community! I have become a better mentor and leader.
What are your hopes and aspirations for Physiopedia?
I hope Physiopedia continues to be a source of information and collaboration for rehabilitation professionals around the world.
What is your favourite Plus course?
The Optimising Learning Programme
Anything else you would like to share?
I am incredibly grateful to the colleagues I have the opportunity to collaborate with at Physiopedia. I truly enjoy learning from you.
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