I have always been very active and involved in sports and activities from a young age. Being active has always been a huge part of my life, whether competing on a team or simply being around others who shared the same passion. Those experiences shaped who I am. They taught me discipline, resilience, and how to set goals. Alongside sports, I naturally gravitated toward leadership roles. Whether as a team captain, a member of the student government, or through community involvement, I was always drawn to opportunities where I could support others and bring people together. Even early on, I knew I wanted a career centered around helping people in a meaningful way. That direction became much clearer after I experienced a knee injury. It was challenging, both physically and mentally, as being active was such a core part of my identity. What felt like a setback at the time ended up being a turning point. Through that experience, I was introduced to physical therapy and had the opportunity to work with an incredible physical therapist who not only helped me recover physically but also listened to me and created a treatment plan that felt personal and empowering. That relationship left a lasting impression and sparked my interest in the field. That interest continued to grow when I began working as an aide for Therapeutic Associates last June. This experience gave me a much deeper understanding of the impact physical therapy can have. I’ve seen firsthand that it’s not just about helping someone return to their routine—it’s about so much more. As a physical therapist, you often meet people during some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives. You work with patients who are trying to get back to playing with their kids, caring for loved ones, or regaining their independence. You see people striving to return to the activities that give their lives meaning and identity. In those moments, physical therapy becomes more than rehabilitation; it becomes about building trust, forming connections, and empowering people when they need it most. Being part of that process is what draws me to this profession. The patients I’ve had the opportunity to work with are the reason I feel so strongly that this is the path I’m meant to pursue. My time as an aide has also shown me how important a supportive environment is, both for patients and providers, which is why I feel such a strong connection to Therapeutic Associates. Physical therapy allows me to combine everything that matters most to me. It keeps me connected to movement and athletics while allowing me to make a meaningful, lasting impact on others’ lives. As I look ahead, I’m especially interested in helping bridge the gap between general orthopedic care and pelvic health. I’ve come to see how connected these areas really are, even though they’re often treated separately. Movement patterns, strength, stability, and body awareness all overlap, yet pelvic health is sometimes overlooked in traditional orthopedic care. I hope to help change that by integrating pelvic floor awareness into general rehab and applying orthopedic principles to pelvic health treatment. My goal is to provide more well-rounded, whole-body care that addresses root causes rather than just symptoms. At the end of the day, I don’t just want to help people recover; I want to support them through their journey and help them return to the things they love, whatever that looks like for them. Thank you for your time and consideration. I truly appreciate the opportunity to share my story and look forward to what lies ahead in this profession.