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What advice would you give to those pursuing a career in physicial therapy?

I'm a highschool student.

physical-therapy physical-therapist
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Rafael’s Answer

Hi Nicholas! Great question. My biggest advice is to start building a strong foundation early and never stop learning, because that growth mindset is what will set you apart. Stack your education with hands-on experience as much as you can, whether that's volunteering, shadowing a physical therapist, or getting involved in sports medicine clubs at your school. Don't sleep on certifications either, because earning specialized credentials shows employers and grad programs that you're serious and committed to your craft. Be open to different environments and challenges too, since adaptability and stepping outside your comfort zone will serve you well whether you end up in a hospital, a sports clinic, or private practice. Most importantly, focus on the people side of things, because physical therapy is all about connecting with patients, understanding their needs, and communicating effectively, so start developing those empathy and interpersonal skills now and you'll be way ahead of the game. You've got plenty of time as a high schooler!
Thank you comment icon I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question. Nicholas
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Lauren’s Answer

Don't go into it expecting to get rich. This is a career of passion.
You will get frustrated, not everyone wants to get better, insurance is not on your side.
There are lots of options. From orthopedics, to neuro. From older adults to kids. There are hospital settings and outpatient.
You can travel, if you so choose to enjoy out of state adventure for 3+ months.
Keep learning, there is always more to learn.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Nicholas
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Rebecca’s Answer

I think Rafael's answer is great. Seek out opportunities now, whether that be starting conversations with people in the field. asking for volunteer or shadow work, and taking anatomy courses if offered at your school. You will need basic human science study as a base, and from there PT school will help you dive more deeply into the study of human movement and of course ways to treat, correct, and optimize it. Many people start out because of a passion for sports, but also looking at opportunities at local nursing homes, homes for people with disabilities, pediatric centers, etc can all be other opportunities to see how therapy can enrich people's lives.
Thank you comment icon This was super helpful, thank you! Nicholas
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Cynthia’s Answer

Hello,
I am adding some suggestions to the other advice you've been given. To help determine if physical therapy is a good career for you, you could shadow physical therapists in different settings (though you will be required to do that as part of your graduate school application), do volunteer or paid work in some type of related setting (either of those would strengthen you application to PT grad school later), watch YouTube videos about a day in the life of a physical therapist, check out websites of PT graduate programs to see what classes are required, what tuition is, what admission requirements are, etc.
In considering your undergraduate program, you could choose from a variety of majors. But be sure to take the classes required for admission to the PT programs that interest you. Go to a school where you will get a strong academic foundation, but also one where you are likely to get high grades in courses, as admission to graduate PT programs is highly competitive.
Good luck!
Cindy
Thank you comment icon Thank you, Cynthia! Nicholas
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