Exercising and staying physically active is one of Mohammad Tauqir’s favorite things to do; so much so, he hopes to turn his love for health and fitness into a full-time career. Aiming to one day become a physical therapist and operate his own clinic, Mohammad Tauqir, a B.S. in Exercise Science graduate, says this online degree is only the beginning. Transferring from a different university to ACU Online, Mohammad feels prepared and ready to see what life has in store for him and his future career goals. 

From Houston Cougar to ACU Wildcat

Ever since he could remember, Mohammad would categorize himself as a hyperactive kid. Whether he was running around the playground or invested in sports, being physically active has always been a part of his life. Throughout his childhood and adulthood, Mohammad knew he always wanted to help people, specifically those who suffered from an injury like he did. After hurting his knee at 17 years old, Mohammad had to undergo an extensive physical therapy process. Seeing what it took to make someone feel better physically, and emotionally, was really what launched his ultimate goal of wanting to become a physical therapist himself. 

“My therapist was one of a kind,” Mohammad said. “She made me feel seen and heard, even as I was just her client. And it really made me think, ‘Wow, I want to make someone feel this way, too.’ Had it not been for her, I don’t think I would have realized my true passion.” 

Fast forward to Mohammad graduating high school, and he was on the path to getting his health and human performance degree. Looking around at different colleges that would be flexible for his schedule, he decided to attend a university closer to home. Taking courses on his schedule, Mohammad inched his way to making it to his senior year – a great accomplishment for him. 

“I worked hard to get to that point,” Mohammad said. “I was traveling pretty far to get to school, so I was pretty determined to get my degree as soon as I could.”

And then, the unexpected happened. In his last semester, after all his hard work, his last classes required him to be on campus almost every day. That would mean traveling nearly 1-2 hours per day just to make it to class – and that was just not feasible for him. Upset at the situation, Mohammad decided to take matters into his own hands and look for an online college that could help him reach his goal without breaking the bank. 

“I was researching colleges and just figured that online school was where I needed to be,” Mohammad said. “ACU Online was one of the few that kept coming up for me.” 

Whether he saw it as a sign, or maybe just a coincidence, Mohammad decided to take the plunge and make the call. Seeing ACU Online’s B.S. in Exercise Science program, he thought to himself, ‘Maybe this was the best opportunity.’ Picking up the phone and getting on a call with his admissions advisor, Edward or ‘Ed’, and he was sold. Never in his life did he have such a great connection and conversation about his situation go as well as it did with Mr. ‘Ed’. Had it not been for him, Mohammad says he probably wouldn’t be able to finish his degree as soon as he hoped. Transferring his credits over, he started his final semester with ACU Online in August 2024 – now officially a Wildcat. 

“Finding ACU Online, and transferring over, has been one of the best decisions I’ve made in my academic career. I owe a lot of credit to ‘Ed’ and all he did for me. From our first call, he allowed me to see what was truly possible.” 

Walking The Stage into His Career

In December 2024, Mohammad proudly walked the stage to receive his degree. For once, the impossible became possible. Already earning his stripes as a flexologist at a StretchLab clinic in the Katy, Texas region, he is making moves to become a full-fledged Rehabilitation Specialist. Providing customized assisted stretching sessions to improve clients’ flexibility, mobility, and overall well-being, Mohammad addresses multiple musculoskeletal issues that offer pain relief, injury prevention, and posture enhancement to those he works with. Seeing this as a gateway into the physical therapy field, he is eternally grateful for the opportunities he’s been given. 

Looking back to his time as a student, simultaneously working to become who he desperately wants to be, Mohammad says he wouldn’t change a thing. He’s proud of who he is, and where he will be going. His mind is set and his ambition is far greater. 

“In many ways, my support system has pushed me forward in ways I never thought possible,” Mohammad said. “I am not meant for the sedentary lifestyle, so I know I will always be moving forward – in every area of my life.” 

If you find yourself interested in learning about the human body and the importance of health and fitness like Mohammad, learn more about our Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science or contact our team of admissions counselors at 855-219-7300 today!