In 5-10 years the professional title I can't wait to have is that of physiotherapist. Physical therapists help people improve movement and manage pain. PTs also diagnose and treat patients who have health conditions that limit their ability to move and perform daily activities. Not only do you help restore physical function and mobility, but you also work to promote overall well-being and improve quality of life. The person I chose to interview currently holds the title of physical therapist and co-owns a PT facility. His name is Kevin Dorf. I met Kevin not long ago while volunteering for the Special Olympics. I thought about getting some advice from him before I knew I had an assignment, so that gave me even more reason to sit down and talk to him. I've been doing research for about two years in the physical therapist field, so starting an internal discussion about the information I've already consumed has been very enlightening. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay What are the educational requirements for a physical therapist? All individuals must earn a Doctorate of Physical Therapy classified as a DPT in order to practice as a physical therapist. Kevin has an MPT but schools no longer offer it. Before earning a DPT you must obtain a bachelor's degree in a closely related healthcare field. Kinesiology is usually your best bet if the college you are attending does not have an entry level PTA or PT program. This process could take up to 7-8 years. Which, for most people who don't have the desire to stay in school for that many years, is far too long. Kevin said: “Although it may seem like a long journey, it is definitely worth the wait. The PT position is very rewarding.”What do you like most about your job? I asked. He replied: “Working as a physiotherapist is very enjoyable. Being able to help someone achieve goals they never thought they could achieve, despite the odds and given obstacles, gives you a really great feeling inside. Plus, it's not as hectic as the business world, allowing you to focus and work without too much stress on your shoulders. Hearing those words felt like he was reading my mind about my dream job. It was also very interesting to know that you could go into a field and enjoy the work without the stress of others. However he went on to say that it may vary depending on the area or company you work for. What could you have done differently to help prepare for this position? I asked. “The only thing I think I would change is to be more involved. I didn't become active or engaged in the PT community until after I received my MPT. There are many companies and groups that help you achieve what you sometimes think is impossible. My advice is to make sure you are involved in every aspect of the career. Volunteer wherever you have the opportunity, sit down with your colleagues, have more conversations like we are doing now to make sure you don't miss anything. This gives you the opportunity to see on and off the field and see where you actually fit,” Kevin responded. I am very grateful for this information. It made me realize that the more help I get, the more success I will have a chance to have Continuing the interview, I asked “What future changes do you see in this field?” “The future in the field of PT could be very bright. Changes in this field will increase as technology, people, injuries and disorders continue to grow. I believe so.
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