Introduction
Being a student in an registered massage therapy program requires communication and lots of hands-on practice. As part of making the most of your educational journey, it is essential to foster positive relationships with your fellow students. Building strong connections not only enhances the learning process but also creates a supportive and collaborative environment. Here's some great ways to connect with other students in our hands-on program, while embracing OV’s  core values of professionalism, excellence, dedication, and community.
1. Embrace Professionalism
Professionalism is a crucial value  to any RMT or RMT student. It lays the foundation for effective communication, respect, and accountability. To get along with other students, it is essential to embody professionalism in your interactions. Here are a few tips:
a. Be punctual: Arriving on time demonstrates your commitment to the program and respect for your peers' time.
b. Communicate effectively: Practice active listening, maintain clarity in your communication, and be mindful of your tone and body language.
c. Be respectful: Treat your peers with respect and courtesy, regardless of differences in opinions or backgrounds.
d.  maintain clinical confidentiality : Respect the privacy of your peers and avoid sharing sensitive information about their health without their consent.
2. Strive for Excellence
Excellence is a value that drives personal and collective growth. By engaging in the OV learning environment which strives for continuous improvement, it can inspire you and the peers you work with. Here's how you can embody excellence:
a. Set high standards: Challenge yourself everyday and and encourage others to do the same.
b. Share knowledge: Be willing to share your expertise and help others succeed. Collaboration fosters a culture of excellence.
c. Provide accurate and honest feedback: Offering feedback in a constructive and supportive manner, helps your peers  to refine their skills and reach their full potential.
d. Celebrate achievements: Acknowledge and appreciate the accomplishments of your peers. Recognizing excellence strengthens the sense of community and motivates everyone to continue striving for greatness.
3. Demonstrate Dedication
Dedication is the fuel that propels success. It shows your commitment to your studies and to supporting your peers. Here are some ways to demonstrate dedication:
a. Be proactive: Take initiative in your learning and actively engage with the material. A proactive attitude inspires others to do the same.
b. Offer assistance: If you notice a peer struggling with a concept or task, offer your help and support. Collaboration and mutual aid create a strong bond among students.
c. Stay motivated: Maintain a positive mindset, even during challenging times. Motivation is contagious and can inspire your peers to stay dedicated as well. Hard concepts are easier in a motivated, positive environment. 
d. Respect shared resources: In hands-on programs, resources such as equipment or lab space are often shared. Treat college resources with care and be mindful of others' needs ( the skeletons really appreciate it!)
4. Foster Community
Community is the backbone of a positive learning environment. By fostering a sense of belonging for everyone, you create a supportive network in which to learn and grow. Here's how you can contribute to a strong community:
a. Participate in group activities:  These opportunities foster teamwork and create lasting connections. do your best to be a great team player
b. Create study groups: Collaborating with peers in study groups promotes a deeper understanding of the material and helps build strong relationships.
c. Organize social events: Arrange informal gatherings outside of class to get to know your classmates. This can grow into lifelong professional relationships and friendships.
d. Embrace diversity: Recognize and appreciate the diverse backgrounds and perspectives everyone in your class. Embracing diversity enriches the community and makes you a better registered massage therapist.  
 
Every OV graduate talks about the strong relationships they have built with peers, and how that has been a factor in their success. If this sound like the place you want to learn the skills and professionalism to be an  RMT, apply today!   We  are committed to our core values of community, dedication excellence, and  professionalism, and we believe that makes all the difference.