What you do:
Physical Therapist at Orthopaedic & Fracture Clinic in Mankato, Minnesota
I work in an outpatient orthopedic physical therapy clinic. My typical work day involves a wide range of patient diagnoses ranging from acute injuries to post surgical patients. I see patients ages 10 all the way up to patients in their 90s. I enjoy the variety that each day brings and the ability to help both the young athlete return to their sport and the elderly individual improve their safety with walking and balance tasks.
What inspires you:
I was injured in high school sports, which led me to having to attend physical therapy as a patient. I was drawn to helping others achieve their goals and return to their regularly activities.
How you want to make a difference:
I recently took an orthopedic specialist certification exam, to further my knowledge and abilities within the orthopedic field. I enjoy working with athletes in the preventative world to evaluate and assess their biomechanics and offer exercises and tips on what they can improve on to prevent an injury from even occurring.
How Bethany has prepared you:
While at Bethany, I double majored in Biology and Exercise Science. This double major challenged me both academically and helped prepare me for the rigor of the DPT program I went through. The cadaver lab was a great learning opportunity and gave me a head start on being comfortable with cadaver dissection when I started that in PT school. I also had the opportunity to become certified as a personal trainer led training sessions and taught fitness classes at the Lake Crystal Rec Center during my senior year. These opportunities were offered great experiences to prepare me for being successful in PT school as well as working as a physical therapist.
What you remember most about Bethany:
I remember the lifelong friends that were made during my 4 years at Bethany. I still am in contact with many of my classmates and friends during that time.
Advice for current students:
Get involved in a wide variety of activities. You will learn and grow from the opportunities you have in those activities. Stay motivated and keep up with your academics, but be sure to take time for yourself as well!