Being a firm believer in the phrase "movement is medicine" has led me to pursue a career in physical therapy. My fascination with movement's benefits began in early childhood as my mother worked at a long-term nursing facility with a rehabilitation wing. I would often accompany my mom during the summer when school was out. Then, in 8th grade, I began volunteering in the rehabilitation wing of the facility. I would help set up and clean equipment and help pass water to patients. Even at 14, I knew that I wanted to do physical therapy. It invigorated me to watch patients progress and go from a state of pain and discomfort to being able to feel and move better. Throughout high school, my love and understanding of the human body deepened. My interest and love deepened in 10th grade when I took my high school's only honors anatomy and physiology course. This course opened my eyes to the wonders and capabilities of the human body. After high school, I immediately enrolled in Berea College, where I began the first steps of my journey to become a Physical Therapist. I started taking the courses needed to become a Health & Human Performance major and immersing myself in various athletic rehabilitation settings such as the athletic training room and various clinics. The diverse experiences I gained while working with physical therapists and athletic trainers expanded my knowledge of rehabilitation, making me intimately familiar with the therapeutic techniques used to increase mobility and reduce pain. Witnessing their dedication to helping patients and seeing patients get their quality of life back solidified my decision to become a physical therapist. I am determined to become a physical therapist to use my passion to help patients improve their quality of life and increase their knowledge of the benefits of movement. Furthermore, I understand the emotional effects that encompass the healing process. Having endured countless musculoskeletal injuries, I can put myself in the shoes of many patients. This empathy allows me to better connect with patients, fostering a more comfortable and inviting environment. I hope my empathy, passion, and commitment will foster an environment that treats physical ailments and encompasses a holistic approach to recovery. I understand it will require tremendous hard work, perseverance, and determination to succeed in a Doctor of Physical Therapy program. To prepare myself for a Doctor of Physical Therapy education, I have committed myself to this career path by balancing an intense liberal arts academic schedule with working and a rich repertoire of volunteer hours and experience. Despite the difficulties I faced applying to these commitments, I remained resilient each semester.