Dan Stark, a 2012 Bethany graduate, is in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at The College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minnesota.
WHAT YOU DO • • • I am a Physical Therapist (DPT) at Twin Cities Orthopedics in Woodbury, Minnesota.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU • • • Since I have been in high school, I have always been interested in how the body functions and responds to exercise. Choosing Exercise Science as my major was an easy decision for me, as it is a field that impacts everyone, and also one where I can continually learn the latest news about health and fitness. I am passionate about helping others and guiding them physically, assisting them to become more functional in their everyday activities. Seeing a person’s progress and goals being met over time are just a few of the aspects I love about this field.
HOW YOU WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE • • • My degree in physical therapy helped to prepare me for a life of learning and of continual assistance to others. There are always new and exciting opportunities to explore and challenge myself within this field, and I enjoy pushing myself farther to accomplish more than I ever thought imaginable. I hope to travel the world as a physical therapist and assist as many people in as many places as I can, but eventually wish to return to the Midwest. The prospect of pursuing so many different possibilities in this field is exciting and I never have to worry about remaining stagnant in life.
HOW BETHANY HAS PREPARED YOU • • • Bethany gave me all the tools necessary to succeed in this expanding field. The curriculum was very well rounded, and I learned extremely valuable information in courses like Gross Anatomy, Exercise Physiology, and Strength and Conditioning. My depth of understanding in all the wonders of the human body has been solidified and expanded as a student. When one studies the intricacies of the body, you can only conclude that we have a great designer and creator, and Bethany professors seek to help you understand this in classroom discussions. As a student, I was also privileged to go on a medical mission trip to Costa Rica for a few weeks, getting hands-on experience with patients needing physical therapy. Here, I was able to gain more insight into the medical processes of a different country, and I am excited to pursue further opportunities like this in the future as a physical therapist. The blessing of being involved with this program has set me apart and distinguishes me from others who are pursuing this field.
WHAT YOU REMEMBER MOST • • • It was so easy to make friends! Taking the opportunity to open up to others and talk with them can only lead to new bonds formed, and you never know where these connections will lead you. I will never forget all the amazing friendships and memories that I made in classes and outside of them; from intramural sports, to late nights studying, blasting music in the dorms, late night Taco Bell runs, singing karaoke, and making music videos. My friends were all so amazing and diverse, and I will always remember these great experiences throughout my life.
ADVICE FOR CURRENT STUDENTS • • • Work hard, but enjoy your time in college, you will only be there for a few years of your life. Have fun learning, meet new people each day, and get involved with whatever you can. The friendships and bonds you form now will follow you for the rest of your life. Also, never forget that God has a plan for you. Give Him glory in all that you do, realizing that if you follow His will for you, He will guide you to achieve your fullest potential.