1 answer
Lainey
Student
Randleman, North Carolina
1
Question
Updated
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How do most students pay for college when they have to pay for their own undergraduate degree?
I am 17 years old and I am planning on going to Campbell University to major in Exercise Science with a minor in Biology. I want to become a Pediatric Physical Therapist with this degree. I am going to have to pay for most of my college so I am still unsure of what to do. I have applied for outside scholarships, contacted financial aid, and even got a job to save. I would just like to know certain ways to find more money for college. #financial-aid #undergraduateadmissions #scholarships #Spring26
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1 answer
Michael Severo, PT, ACC
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Michael’s Answer
Hello, You are already doing many of the smartest things students can do: applying for scholarships, talking with financial aid, and working to save money. That shows a lot of maturity and determination at 17.
It is admirable that you want to become a pediatric physical therapist. As you probably know, Campbell University has a strong program. I have been a physical therapist for almost 30 years, and it has been an amazing profession to be part of.
One thing I would encourage you to focus on is being very strategic with your college plan. Make sure you understand exactly which courses and prerequisites are required for the physical therapy programs you may want to apply to in the future. Try to avoid taking extra classes you do not need, meet regularly with an academic advisor, stay focused on graduating on time, and work toward earning the best grades you can. Every extra semester, and sometimes even an extra course, can add significant cost.
You may also want to look into:
Work-study opportunities once you start school
Resident assistant (RA) positions later in college, which sometimes help with housing costs
Community college courses during summers if they transfer and cost less
Scholarships specific to healthcare, physical therapy, pediatric care, or rural healthcare
State grants or local community foundation scholarships that many students overlook
Since you want to become a Pediatric Physical Therapist, remember that this is a long-term investment in a meaningful career. Healthcare careers can require loans, but being careful and intentional with your finances now can make a huge difference later.
Most importantly, do not give up on your goal just because financing feels overwhelming right now. Many successful healthcare professionals had to build their education one step at a time. Stay organized, ask questions often, and keep applying for opportunities even after you start college. This is doable and you are smart to plan ahead. Opportunities will present themselves along the way.
All the best,
Mike
It is admirable that you want to become a pediatric physical therapist. As you probably know, Campbell University has a strong program. I have been a physical therapist for almost 30 years, and it has been an amazing profession to be part of.
One thing I would encourage you to focus on is being very strategic with your college plan. Make sure you understand exactly which courses and prerequisites are required for the physical therapy programs you may want to apply to in the future. Try to avoid taking extra classes you do not need, meet regularly with an academic advisor, stay focused on graduating on time, and work toward earning the best grades you can. Every extra semester, and sometimes even an extra course, can add significant cost.
You may also want to look into:
Work-study opportunities once you start school
Resident assistant (RA) positions later in college, which sometimes help with housing costs
Community college courses during summers if they transfer and cost less
Scholarships specific to healthcare, physical therapy, pediatric care, or rural healthcare
State grants or local community foundation scholarships that many students overlook
Since you want to become a Pediatric Physical Therapist, remember that this is a long-term investment in a meaningful career. Healthcare careers can require loans, but being careful and intentional with your finances now can make a huge difference later.
Most importantly, do not give up on your goal just because financing feels overwhelming right now. Many successful healthcare professionals had to build their education one step at a time. Stay organized, ask questions often, and keep applying for opportunities even after you start college. This is doable and you are smart to plan ahead. Opportunities will present themselves along the way.
All the best,
Mike