Welcome to the PT Site student section
Becoming a physical therapist is a very rewarding endeavor, however you should be prepared for stiff competition and very hard work.Requirements and the interview
As a certified clinical instructor, c0-owner of a twenty-one year-old outpatient practice, interviewer of job seekers and P.T. school applicants, I feel I have the knowledge to help the physical therapy applicant with their pursuit into a career of physical therapy . . . More
I always recommend that the potential physical therapy school applicant visit some local P.T. clinics and Hospitals so they can observe what a typical day is like for a therapist. The schools you are interviewing with want to know that you have done your due diligence and are sure this is the field for you. There are a limited number of slots available and there is nothing worse to them than investing the time in you and part way into the program, you quit because this is not what you really want.
How to get a great P.T. school recommendation letter
It doesn't take long for me to recognize someone who is likely to get a great letter and someone who will get a mediocre one. It does take time to get to know you, as a volunteer or intern, so try to make it worthwhile when you are with the P.T. and within the facility. If you are hired, don't fall into the trap of complacency. Continue to do your best and prove you are invaluable. Become a two person team with your therapist so the patient gets the best and most efficient care possible. Please go to the page with tips for a good letter.
FindArticles - Clinical Instructors' Descriptions of Physical Therapist Student Professional Behaviors Journal of Physical Therapy Education, Spring 2005, by Wolff-Burke, Melissa