Why did you choose Daemen College?

I chose Daemen College because I’d heard such great things about its Physical Therapy program, and I knew exactly what I wanted to do. At the time, some of my closest friends were attending Daemen and I could see myself flourishing in the atmosphere they described on campus. Daemen was close to home, a small, intimate campus where I would be able to start a new part of my life and I felt extremely comfortable and welcomed by both the students and the staff.

Why did you choose your present major?

I chose Physical Therapy because I’ve always had a huge interest in health and wellness. I knew I wanted to learn as much as possible about the body and all of its intricate functions and nuances. I also had a passion for people. I love people! I love talking, working, and building relationships with them. Physical Therapy is a great field with many different opportunities for travel and areas of specialization. You’re encouraged to continue learning and growing throughout your career in order to better serve patients and become a better clinician. With PT, I know I’ll be helping others and doing what I love to do for the rest of my life.

Please describe your academic experience at Daemen College. (Ex: It is challenging, but I know it will prepare me for my career, etc.)

My academic career has definitely been a rollercoaster. A lot of challenges have been thrown my way but I’ve learned so much about myself and what I’m capable of. I’ve been pushed to my limits, I’ve had failures and successes, but most importantly I’ve become confident in myself and my ability to evolve and grow. My professors have been very dedicated to my educational experience - they want to see me succeed just as much as I do and that has made all the difference. I know that this part of my life has been in preparation for my future career and although it most certainly has come with challenges, every moment has been worth the final outcome.

Please describe the impact Daemen faculty, staff and advisors have had on you.

The Daemen faculty have really been a huge part of my success at Daemen. From admissions to program advisors and counselors, I know that every person on staff is concerned with my well-being and continued growth. The professors in my program have been there for me in many ways and have provided me the encouragement I needed to push through. They’re easily accessible and willing to help whenever I need it. Even the beginning of my educational journey here went smoothly because my admissions advisor, Luke Ramey, was so active in the process. I know the reason I’ve come this far is definitely due to their role in my education and the time and energy they’ve invested to help all of us succeed.

What do you like best about Daemen College?

What I like the most about Daemen is how it feels so much like family, especially within the realm of my program. Since we have come up through the program together, my friends feel more like family. There is a real sense of community in general throughout the whole campus. People are friendly and the staff are kind and helpful. My professors are personable and invested in my growth, not just there to teach, which makes a huge difference. I can tell that they want me to succeed and I know that I have multiple avenues available to me to find support and encouragement.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation I would like to pursue travel physical therapy in order to gain more experience as well as fulfill my desire to live in various parts of the United States. Hopefully along the way I will be able to find some place I would like to settle permanently and start a family.