Why Be a PT?
I have always had a deep interest in pursuing a profession in the healthcare field that would allow me to care for a patient not only in the physical aspect of care, but also in other aspects of care. I wanted to use my lifelong passion for fitness, health and wellness to tend to the physical aspect, while using my empathy and compassion for embracing a patient’s personal needs to tend to other aspects of care.
In addition, I was drawn to the strong interprofessional collaboration and the patient-provider relationship necessary within the physical therapy field. It captivated me how essential communication and collaboration are to achieve the best outcomes for the patients and how effective communication between patients and their physical therapists leads to increased patient satisfaction, trust, and an improved overall well-being.
Viewing these features of physical therapy during my time as a PT Technician in an orthopedic outpatient clinic in Columbus truly solidified my passion for entering the physical therapy field.
Choosing UMU
Throughout the application process, Mount Union remained at the top of my list as I was enticed by the small class size, hybrid coursework, research classes, state-of-the-art equipment, and interprofessional education offered; however, visiting Mount Union for my interview solidified my interest in being a part of the class of 2023 cohort. It was my first time being on Mount Union’s campus and I instantly felt right at home. The faculty members were so amiable, and I could sense their deep passion for the program. I loved the idea that Mount Union was a fairly new program because of their innovative approach to teaching PT and state-of-the-art facilities.
As a first year DPT student, one of the most impactful aspects of Mount Union’s DPT program that I have already encountered has been the relationships that I’ve made with many of the faculty members. Because of the small class sizes, my peers and I have been able to learn beyond the curriculum due to the faculty’s extensive insight and their genuine devotion to helping us become the best we can possibly be.