Where are you from?
I am originally from Houston, Texas, a place near and dear to my heart.
Describe your path to the Emory Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
From a young age, I knew I wanted to make a difference in others’ lives. That desire, combined with my passion for sports medicine, ultimately shaped my path to Emory’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. I earned my bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Baylor University, where I developed a strong foundation in injury prevention and rehabilitation while working closely with athletes.
As I continued my journey, I realized I wanted to do more than treat injuries. I wanted to shape the systems that deliver care. Throughout my time at Emory, I’ve pursued opportunities that reflect that vision. I’ve served in leadership roles, supported peers as a teaching assistant and engaged in initiatives promoting equity and access within the profession. These experiences have allowed me to grow not only in clinical skill but also in my ability to lead, advocate and serve with purpose.
What field do you plan to pursue post-graduation?
Entering physical therapy school, I was initially interested in pursuing a career in sports rehabilitation. However, my perspective shifted during my clinical rotation in the cardiovascular intensive care unit. During rotation, I had the opportunity to work with medically complex patients during some of the most critical stages of their recovery.
That experience showed me the profound impact physical therapy can have in acute care. I saw how early mobility, clinical decision-making and interdisciplinary collaboration could directly influence patient outcomes. I realized I wanted to be part of that process.
After graduation, I will be starting my career in acute care, where I will have the opportunity to walk alongside patients during some of their most vulnerable moments. In this role, I hope to help them return to the lives they once knew or help them adapt to—and confidently embrace—a new normal.
Long-term, I hope to integrate both my clinical training and business background to improve patient outcomes, enhance care delivery systems and expand access to high-quality rehabilitation services.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in physical therapy and come to Emory?
I initially pursued athletic training because I was passionate about helping people get back to doing what they love. As I gained more experience, I realized I wanted to broaden the population I could serve, which led me to physical therapy. The field allows me to work with individuals across the lifespan, each with unique journeys and goals, while continuing to help people return to what matters most to them.
What drew me most to physical therapy is the opportunity to be present throughout a patient’s entire journey. From the initial injury or diagnosis to the moment they regain independence or reach a meaningful milestone, physical therapists have the privilege of walking alongside patients through both their most challenging and most rewarding moments. That continuity of care and human connection is what ultimately solidified my decision to pursue this profession.
Emory stood out to me not only as a top-ranked physical therapy program but also because of its commitment to clinical excellence, leadership development and service. I was specifically drawn to Emory because it provided the unique opportunity to pursue a dual Doctor of Physical Therapy and Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree, allowing me to develop as both a clinician and a leader.
What would you want others to know about your years in the Emory Doctor of Physical Therapy Program?
Leadership, service and growth defined my time in the Emory Physical Therapy Program as a dual-degree student. Beyond the classroom and clinic, I have been intentional about investing in both my peers and the broader community.
Serving in leadership roles within both the Division of Physical Therapy and the School of Medicine allowed me to support and mentor others, while also strengthening my ability to lead with empathy and clarity. Additionally, my involvement in initiatives focused on increasing diversity in physical therapy, particularly through outreach to younger students, has been especially meaningful. Representation in health care is essential. And I have been passionate about helping others see what is possible for themselves within this profession.
The dual-degree experience has also challenged me to think beyond individual patient care and consider how we can improve systems, expand access and deliver more equitable health care. My time at Emory did not just prepare me to treat patients. It strengthened my purpose to serve, lead and make a lasting impact in health care.
This journey stretched me, challenged me and grew me in ways I never imagined. Along the way, I learned to lean into discomfort, celebrate the small wins, stay grounded in my why and trust my voice while being confident taking up space.
Because at the end of the day, the goal is not just success, it is significance.
What did you like most about living in Atlanta?
While I will always hold a special place in my heart for Houston, Atlanta has truly welcomed my husband and I with open arms.
What I’ve loved most about living in Atlanta is the strong sense of community and culture. It’s a city full of diversity, opportunity and creativity. From my church community to my academic and professional networks, Atlanta has provided spaces where I’ve grown both personally and professionally.