
Hobbies and interests
Animals
Bible Study
Beach
Biking And Cycling
Swimming
Weightlifting
Running
Church
Anatomy
Exercise And Fitness
Physical Therapy
Pediatrics
Advocacy And Activism
Art
Reading
STEM
Reading
Adult Fiction
Biography
Religion
I read books daily
Zoe Somerville
1x
Finalist
Zoe Somerville
1x
FinalistBio
Hi! I am passionate about becoming a pediatric physical therapist and one day opening a clinic dedicated to helping children heal both physically and emotionally after experiencing trauma. Working with children has shaped my purpose and inspired my career goals. I believe healing is about more than recovering from an injury; it is about helping children build confidence, regain independence, and feel supported throughout their journey.
My passion for this field comes from my love of science and my desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Health Science with plans to attend the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at University of Illinois Chicago this fall. My long-term goal is to provide compassionate care to children while creating a safe and welcoming environment where they can thrive.
Outside of academics, I have spent many years working with children. I have worked as a swim instructor and swim coach, experiences that strengthened my leadership, communication, and mentoring skills. I also swam competitively during the winter season, which taught me discipline, perseverance, and the value of hard work.
As I prepare for graduate school, I am actively seeking scholarships to help reduce the financial burden of earning my DPT. Every scholarship brings me closer to achieving my goals and allows me to focus on becoming the best healthcare professional I can be. I am committed to using my education to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and families in need.
Education
University of Illinois at Chicago
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)Majors:
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
- Movement and Mind-Body Therapies and Education
Northern Illinois University
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Movement and Mind-Body Therapies and Education
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
William Rainey Harper College
Associate's degree programMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
Career
Dream career field:
- Health, Wellness, and Fitness
Dream career goals:
Pediatric Physical Therapist
Lifeguard/Swim instructor/Skate guard/B&A counselor
Hoffman Estates Park District2022 – Present4 yearsKids Camp Site Director
Palatine Park District2025 – Present1 yearSwim coach/Lifeguard
Kishwaukee YMCA2024 – Present2 years
Sports
Swimming
Club2015 – Present11 years
Arts
IACS
Drawing2015 – 2018
Public services
Volunteering
Kishwaukee Hospital — physical therapy volunteer2025 – 2025