February 3, 2021
Shawnee State University’s Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) program has proven to be the right fresh start from home for Grace Eberhard. Not only did the campus community make her feel welcomed, but Eberhard found the PTA program to have great hands-on experience while learning different physical therapy situations.
Initially, Eberhard applied to SSU because of her interest in playing for the tennis team, and although adjusting to a new home two hours away from her own hometown, SSU’s campus community made her feel welcomed in no time.
“It was definitely an adjustment not really knowing anyone here, but once I got more involved, I started making new friends and great memories. It’s nice to have people around you who understand the big adjustment to college and are going through similar situations,” Eberhard said.
The career possibilities for the PTA are endless with jobs in outpatient or inpatient care, school, and nursing homes. Types of physical therapy do vary and not every facility is the same. Eberhard currently has the opportunity to do her second clinical rotation in a facility in Corpus Christi, Texas.
“The clinic is larger than what I was expecting with a wide range of treatment options, modalities and aquatic therapy,” Eberhard said. “Not only has this experience pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me gain a greater appreciation for this field, I have been able to do a lot of different treatment options for many types of patients.”
Although the PTA program can be challenging, both physically and mentally, Eberhard still encourages students considering the major to explore SSU’s program and the future careers it has to offer.
“The program is challenging, but it’s a lot of hands-on learning experience which I have found extremely helpful,” she said. “If you are willing to give it your all and try your hardest, the professors are willing to work with you and make sure you are successful in the program.”
To learn more about the PTA program at SSU, visit shawnee.edu/pta.