Where are you from?
I’m from the San Francisco Bay Area.
Where did you go for undergrad?
I attended the University of California, Davis.
Describe your path to the Emory Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
I have always been inspired by people’s stories, especially ones that are seldom told. This prompted me to major in history at UC Davis, with a minor in biological sciences. While people are sometimes surprised that I went from history to health care, this made perfect sense to me – I am able to use people’s stories to uncover conditions and form a patient-centered treatment plan.
I am best friends with my grandparents, who are all-around wonderful people (I might be slightly biased!). I knew I wanted to pursue a career where I could work with older adults and improve their quality of life. What I love about physical therapy is that I can learn about people’s goals and help them have a better quality of life through education, encouragement, and evidence-based knowledge. I also come from a Pilates/barre background and have felt the transformative power of exercise in my life and want to instill that in others.
I decided to attend the Emory Physical Therapy Program because of the emphasis on research, the mentorship from faculty, and the wide array of clinical partnerships. I’ve been fortunate to have learned from sites including UC San Francisco, the Shepherd Center, and the Emory Hawks Center.
What field do you plan to pursue post-graduation?
While I’m open to many fields, I am most interested in working with older adults.
What would you want others to know about your years in the Emory Doctor of Physical Therapy Program?
To incoming students, I would recommend finding activities outside of class that bring you joy. The DPT program is challenging and having hobbies outside of school will make your overall life healthier and more sustainable. Also, finding supportive friends to study with is extremely valuable. My friend and I will make practice exams and go through patient cases with each other, which has helped me solidify and apply the material. Don’t forget to reach out to professors early if you are struggling – they want you to succeed!
What did you like most about living in Atlanta?
I love the Jewish community in Atlanta. It feels like a family, which I’ve been grateful for after moving from the West Coast. I also love the access to nature – take a day trip to North Georgia during fall and you’ll be surrounded by vibrant colors and beautiful views.