My Major and Career Goals
My Major: Exercise Science
I chose to major in Exercise Science because I knew that this major would effectively prepare me with the knowledge and experiences I needed to eventually attend PT school. I'm grateful I chose this major because I can say that I truly enjoy learning about the many different aspects of exercise and how it relates to the human body and overall health. Some of my favorite classes so far have been Structural Kinesiology, Exercise Physiology, Performance and Teaching of Cardio and Resistance Training, and Theory and Practice of Cardiovascular Exercise. In these classes I've learned about the movement of human body, the benefits of physical activity and exercise, and how to create individual and specific exercise prescriptions.
Why Physical Therapy?
I've wanted to pursue Physical Therapy since I was a sophomore in high school, and I've recently had the dream to work with children. I experienced several ankle injuries from a car accident in high school, which was a blessing in disguise leading me to attending physical therapy. After going to PT twice a week, I felt so inspired and fascinated by this profession. I formed strong relationships with both of my therapists and I got to learn a lot about their careers. I learned that it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to pursue this career. I also learned a lot about myself, being that I'm passionate about how the human body heals through rehabilitation and exercise.
My drive to work with children comes from my large family. I have many younger cousins and I grew up babysitting and caring for them, as well as many other children in the neighborhood. I think it takes a lot of patience and energy to work with children, and I do believe that I have those strengths which is why I would love to become a Pediatric Physical Therapist someday.
Athletico Physical Therapy Rehab Aide
March 2022 - Present
I work part-time as a rehabilitation aide at Athletico Physical Therapy in Westfield, IN. During my shifts, I work one on one with patients to guide them in completing their exercises and stretches for that day. I also set up electrical stimulation machines and equipment for patients. This job has already taught me so much about what a positive, encouraging, and professional environment looks like in a physical therapy clinic! The therapists and other rehab aides here are full of intelligence and I'm looking forward to gaining more knowledge on how to provide the best rehabilitation and care for patients in my future!
Student Therapy Exercise Workshop
April 9, 2022
I was fortunate enough to attend this workshop at Community Rehabilitation South Hospital in Greenwood, IN. This picture shows the talented group of Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapists, graduate students, and other undergrad students that I was able to learn from. The therapists presented their newest pieces of technology that they use to treat their patients. I was also able to participate in the use of these devices and actively ask the graduate students questions about their academic and professional experiences so far.
Career Goals
After my undergraduate years at IUPUI, I have a goal of going to doctorate school and graduating as a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Afterwards, my end goal is to become a Pediatric Physical Therapist at Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis. These have been big goals of mine for a while, and it's because of my passion for the kinesiology of the body and how it can be rehabilitated through exercise and movement. Majoring in Exercise Science has helped me fully confirm that this is the right career for me. I've found that I do very well in this subject in school, and that gives me even more passion than what I already have for exercise science and physical therapy.
Take a look at my resume!
Courtney Allen Resume 2022.docx