3 answers
Aubrey
Student
Grundy Center, Iowa
3
Questions
Asked
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What advice would you have given yourself before you started your journey of becoming a Physical Therapist?
Why would you give yourself this advice?
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3 answers
Cheri Hall
Physical Therapist
45
Answers
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Updated
Cheri’s Answer
Hello Aubrey,
Your question is truly thought-provoking. As a seasoned physical therapist with over two decades of experience, I've found my journey to be both fulfilling and stimulating, particularly in dealing with patients. However, with the wisdom of hindsight, there are a few alterations I would make if I had the chance to revisit my educational and professional path.
My journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Biology, which paved the way for my direct application to PT school during my final year of college. In retrospect, I would recommend others to consider a gap of a year or two between their undergraduate and doctorate studies. This break could be utilized to gain practical experience, perhaps by working in a PT clinic or engaging in clinical research. You could even explore fields outside of healthcare. Many institutions necessitate work or volunteering experience in a PT clinic prior to application, and this gap year provides the perfect opportunity for that. I managed to fulfill this requirement during my summer breaks in college.
Furthermore, I would encourage the inclusion of more business-related courses during your college years. Healthcare, at its core, is a business, yet professionals in the field are often not equipped with business education. A firm grasp of marketing, economics, and finance can be an invaluable asset, especially if you aspire to establish your own practice. These skills can also aid in managing your personal finances as you navigate through different career objectives.
Lastly, I would like to impress upon you (or my younger self) the importance of lifelong learning. Always believe in your ability to accomplish your dreams. Seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support in achieving your goals, ensuring that these goals truly reflect your aspirations and not those of others.
Your question is truly thought-provoking. As a seasoned physical therapist with over two decades of experience, I've found my journey to be both fulfilling and stimulating, particularly in dealing with patients. However, with the wisdom of hindsight, there are a few alterations I would make if I had the chance to revisit my educational and professional path.
My journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Biology, which paved the way for my direct application to PT school during my final year of college. In retrospect, I would recommend others to consider a gap of a year or two between their undergraduate and doctorate studies. This break could be utilized to gain practical experience, perhaps by working in a PT clinic or engaging in clinical research. You could even explore fields outside of healthcare. Many institutions necessitate work or volunteering experience in a PT clinic prior to application, and this gap year provides the perfect opportunity for that. I managed to fulfill this requirement during my summer breaks in college.
Furthermore, I would encourage the inclusion of more business-related courses during your college years. Healthcare, at its core, is a business, yet professionals in the field are often not equipped with business education. A firm grasp of marketing, economics, and finance can be an invaluable asset, especially if you aspire to establish your own practice. These skills can also aid in managing your personal finances as you navigate through different career objectives.
Lastly, I would like to impress upon you (or my younger self) the importance of lifelong learning. Always believe in your ability to accomplish your dreams. Seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support in achieving your goals, ensuring that these goals truly reflect your aspirations and not those of others.
Michelle Nguyen
Product Marketing Manager
3
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
I would definitely volunteer with in patient and out patient care facility to see if this is something that you truly want to pursue a career in. I thought I wanted to be a PT, but then I saw the work that a PT has to do in a career before committing to the 4 years long in DPT. Also look into the cost of school and how much studying it requires to get a good grade on the GRE.
Rebecca Kollmorgen
physical therapy
6
Answers
North Hampton, New Hampshire
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
I was fortunate enough to have made a lucky guess at what I wanted to be "when I grew up"! I did not spend much time shadowing PT's in high school, but I chose a Clinical Science major (which led to a MSPT at my institution, which has since transitioned to a DPT) simply because it contained all of the classes that I was interested in. I think that this was the best way to approach the situation, I wouldn't change a thing! And it is the same advice I have given my daughter in college. If you like your coursework, if you are inspired by what you are learning and it is leading you into more advanced classes with enthusiasm, then you are absolutely on the right path! However, on the flip side, if you get into a curriculum path that is not interesting or exciting to you, pivot quickly so you don't waste time and money. Speak with an advisor/counselor who can question you about your interests and point you in a new course of study that better suits your interests.