In A Student’s Words… By Allyson
This is my last week of my last clinical rotation… and I cannot decide if I am happy or sad. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with everyone at my site. This was my first time to work closely with OTs, SLPs, nurses, and case managers. With so many professions under one roof, it greatly enhanced my learning experience as I was able to gain multiple perspectives about my patients. And I will miss my patients and their families. I enjoyed watching patients meet their goals. I also enjoyed watching patients show off to their family members when those goals were reached. I will miss seeing and being a part of those accomplishments.
On the other hand, I am ecstatic that I am weeks away from finishing my DPT. I just finished filling out all my licensure paperwork and have submitted everything to the state board. After 3 years of hard work, I can finally see the finish line. I think the best advice I can offer to those who are starting their trek through PT school is keep an open mind. When I first started school, I believed I wanted to work with children and thought my decision was final. In addition, because of some negative family experiences with nursing homes, I was nervous about working in this environment. However, through classes and clinicals I learned that I love working with the geriatric population. I credit a lot of my change in opinion to my time with Rehabcare. This rotation showed me how rewarding this area of practice is, and I could not ask for a better CI or working environment.
- Allyson, University of Oklahoma DPT 2011
