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future student... - February 23, 2002 11:43:00 PM

DGC

Posts: 1
Joined: February 23, 2002
Status: offline

Hello Everyone,

As a new DPT student this coming fall, I am very happy to be entering a profession that truly excites me. At the same time, however, I cannot help but feel concerned over the previous treads on the dissatisfaction among current students over the future of this career. I think I've even caught a line or two in previous postings over the future existence of PT... is this a realistic concern? Could I be graduating (or a few years afterward) and find myself not only out of a job, but out of a profession as well? Even though the rewarding role of being part of the healing process serves as the driving force behind my desire to become a PT, I have to say that realistic issues such as finances and employment are growing concerns looming over my head. I understand that no one can put a guarantee on a prediction, but just from reading people's concerns and opinions on the future of PT, my enthusiasm has been somewhat dampened... Yet aside from PT, there is no other profession that I would rather enter, or picture myself enter. I suppose I won't be alone in feeling this conflict...

Besides throwing in my two cents on that issue, I would like to ask for some advice. I have been lucky enough to be accepted into several DPT programs, all of which are among the top schools in the field. My question is: what kind of factors should I be looking for in choosing a DPT program? Specifically, are there important components within the curriculum I should be comparing? I am interested in doing both research and clinical practice, is the DPT sufficient to prepare me for this path? Or should I be thinking about acquiring additional PhD degree after DPT? I would appreciate any advice!

Finally, I'd like to say that I have learned a great deal about PT from this forum. I hope that years from now, I will continue to share your enthusiasm and love for this profession.