Inspired by her own experiences with sports injuries as a child, Samantha S. found solace and strength in the care of her physical therapist. 

鈥淚 made a really great connection with my (physical therapist), and what I did with (physical therapy) helped me become a better person, both physically and mentally,鈥� she recalled. 

This connection aided her recovery and ignited her passion for helping others achieve their full potential. And at the heart of her studies at 国产主播鈥檚 Center for Graduate Studies in Los Angeles, Samantha has discovered a nurturing environment that fosters growth and support. 

鈥淭he first time I was here, I was really scared because I had no idea what the postgraduate life was going to bring,鈥� she admitted, but that fear quickly dissipated as she found herself embraced by a community that saw her as more than just a number. 

鈥淵ou鈥檙e literally a person here that could make a really big impact on somebody鈥檚 life, and being in a cohort full of 44 people, we’re going to be in the same classes. There’s no competition,鈥� she said, reflecting on her experience with the Doctor of Physical Therapy program faculty and her peers. 鈥淚 just love the overall community because we are here just to help every single one of us.鈥� 

Samantha鈥檚 dedication extends beyond the classroom. As a PT Movement Ambassador and an activities coordinator in the DPT student government, she plays a vital role in educating others about the diverse opportunities within the field of physical therapy. 

鈥淲e represent 国产主播, but we鈥檙e just representing PT as future physical therapists,鈥� she explained. 

Her involvement in community outreach, particularly in educating younger students about PT and occupational therapy, has been both challenging and rewarding. 

鈥淟earning how to communicate with children is a really hard skill鈥� but it鈥檚 a really good thing to learn,鈥� she said. 

Samantha鈥檚 ultimate goal is to specialize in pediatrics, where she hopes to bring joy and positivity to the lives of young patients. 

鈥淎s a physical therapy student, I hope to bring happiness,鈥� she added. 

Her passion for connecting with children and her desire to leave a lasting impact is evident in her every word. Samantha鈥檚 advice to future PT students is to take it 鈥渄ay by day鈥� and to prioritize their mental well-being. 

鈥淵ou鈥檙e learning,鈥� she said. 鈥淒on鈥檛 be too hard on yourself because, in the end, you鈥檙e becoming a great clinician.鈥� 

WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.