3 answers
Lydia
Student
Grundy Center, Iowa
3
Questions
Asked
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What can I do to prepare myself to go into a physical therapy programs?
I'm 16 years old and have a passion to go into healthcare. I am hoping to start at a community college to become a PTA.
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3 answers
Tom Jose
Principal Product Manager
5
Answers
Kozhikode, Kerala, India
Updated
Tom’s Answer
I don't know much about how things happen in Iowa but I am posting the tips below to help you as there are no other answers
1. Focus on Academic Preparation
Prioritize Science Classes: Subjects like biology, anatomy, and physiology are fundamental to physical therapy. If possible, take Advanced Placement (AP) or honors courses in these areas.
Improve Communication Skills: Physical therapy involves working closely with patients, so taking classes in English, psychology, or even public speaking can be beneficial.
1
2. Gain Experience in Healthcare
Shadow a Physical Therapist or PTA: See if any local clinics or hospitals allow high school students to shadow professionals. This can give you insights into the day-to-day tasks and patient interactions in physical therapy.
Volunteer in Healthcare Settings: Look into opportunities at local nursing homes, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers. Even if it’s not directly with physical therapy, any healthcare experience is valuable.
3. Connect with Community College Resources
Talk to Advisors at Your Community College of Interest: They can provide guidance on pre-requisites, application processes, and additional preparation needed to enter the PTA program.
Look into Dual Enrollment Options: Some high schools allow students to take college courses, which could help you start on your general education requirements early.
`
4. Develop Foundational Skills
Build Physical Strength and Stamina: Physical therapy work can be physically demanding, so start practicing safe body mechanics and building core strength.
Develop Empathy and Patient-Care Skills: Volunteering with diverse populations or working in customer service can help you develop a compassionate approach, which is crucial in healthcare.
5. Research PTA Program Requirements
Check Program Prerequisites: Each PTA program has different requirements, so research your chosen program’s prerequisites to make sure you’re on track.
Consider Certification Opportunities: Some certifications, like CPR and First Aid, may be required or helpful to have before starting a PTA program.
6. Consider Financial Aid and Scholarships
Research Scholarship Opportunities: Look for scholarships specific to healthcare or physical therapy. Some programs may also offer financial aid based on academic performance or community involvement.
Look into Financial Aid Options: Fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) during your senior year to see what financial aid options are available.
7. Join Health-Related Clubs and Organizations
School Health Clubs or HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America): If your school has a health sciences club or a chapter of HOSA, join to connect with peers, gain knowledge, and access resources for students interested in healthcare careers.
1. Focus on Academic Preparation
Prioritize Science Classes: Subjects like biology, anatomy, and physiology are fundamental to physical therapy. If possible, take Advanced Placement (AP) or honors courses in these areas.
Improve Communication Skills: Physical therapy involves working closely with patients, so taking classes in English, psychology, or even public speaking can be beneficial.
1
2. Gain Experience in Healthcare
Shadow a Physical Therapist or PTA: See if any local clinics or hospitals allow high school students to shadow professionals. This can give you insights into the day-to-day tasks and patient interactions in physical therapy.
Volunteer in Healthcare Settings: Look into opportunities at local nursing homes, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers. Even if it’s not directly with physical therapy, any healthcare experience is valuable.
3. Connect with Community College Resources
Talk to Advisors at Your Community College of Interest: They can provide guidance on pre-requisites, application processes, and additional preparation needed to enter the PTA program.
Look into Dual Enrollment Options: Some high schools allow students to take college courses, which could help you start on your general education requirements early.
`
4. Develop Foundational Skills
Build Physical Strength and Stamina: Physical therapy work can be physically demanding, so start practicing safe body mechanics and building core strength.
Develop Empathy and Patient-Care Skills: Volunteering with diverse populations or working in customer service can help you develop a compassionate approach, which is crucial in healthcare.
5. Research PTA Program Requirements
Check Program Prerequisites: Each PTA program has different requirements, so research your chosen program’s prerequisites to make sure you’re on track.
Consider Certification Opportunities: Some certifications, like CPR and First Aid, may be required or helpful to have before starting a PTA program.
6. Consider Financial Aid and Scholarships
Research Scholarship Opportunities: Look for scholarships specific to healthcare or physical therapy. Some programs may also offer financial aid based on academic performance or community involvement.
Look into Financial Aid Options: Fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) during your senior year to see what financial aid options are available.
7. Join Health-Related Clubs and Organizations
School Health Clubs or HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America): If your school has a health sciences club or a chapter of HOSA, join to connect with peers, gain knowledge, and access resources for students interested in healthcare careers.
Dilawar Hussain
Veterinarian
22
Answers
Tando Jam, Sindh
Updated
Dilawar’s Answer
Hi Lydia,
To prepare yourself to go into a physical therapy program you must follow these steps:
1: Prepare yourself in high school especially focusing on relevant subjects such as biology, anatomy, physiology, etc.
2:Get familiar with the PTA program by researching community colleges accredited with PTA programs in Lowa.
3: Explore community colleges.
4: Get hands-on experience.
5: Develop Key skills for PTA.
7:Stay physically fit
Good luck with your future endeavors.
To prepare yourself to go into a physical therapy program you must follow these steps:
1: Prepare yourself in high school especially focusing on relevant subjects such as biology, anatomy, physiology, etc.
2:Get familiar with the PTA program by researching community colleges accredited with PTA programs in Lowa.
3: Explore community colleges.
4: Get hands-on experience.
5: Develop Key skills for PTA.
7:Stay physically fit
Good luck with your future endeavors.
Rebecca Kollmorgen
physical therapy
6
Answers
North Hampton, New Hampshire
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
A PTA is a great degree, so start searching for community colleges in a place you are interested in that offer that program. See if you can get some volunteer hours at a local rehabilitation or orthopedic clinic, or hospital, where you can shadow a PTA or other related allied health professional on an ongoing basis while you are preparing to apply for colleges. Talk to people in the field, ask them questions, or ask others you know if they can introduce you to anyone who is currently working in that field.
If you have a passion..... follow it!
If you have a passion..... follow it!