Here are four goals I have for myself after graduating physical therapy school and how I will attempt to reach each goal.
1. Within 3 months of obtaining my physical therapy licensure, I will obtain a career in a orthopedic outpatient rehab setting.
Why?: I have always enjoyed working in orthopedics and I strive to have a career as a physical therapist to help those who are suffering from orthopedic related injuries..
Action Plan: I am starting one of my full-time clinical internships in an outpatient setting. While there, I will give my patients the utmost in care to build my reputation as a physical therapist. Additionally, I will develop strong working relationships with the physical therapists at that facility, and I will strive to create an extensive network of physical therapists with whom to build my future career.
2. In my first year as a licensed PT, I will establish a strong mentorship with a veteran physical therapist in the orthopedic rehab clinic in which I work.
Why?: To continue the learning process and further my skills as a physical therapist so that I can provide the best possible care for all my patients.
Action Plan: I will seek out a highly-skilled, Orthopedic Certified Specialist therapist with whom I get along and who shares a similar learning style and desire to advance the physical therapy profession.
3. In my 3rd year as a licensed PT, I will become a Orthopedic Certified Specialist (OCS).
Why?: I want to develop a niche for myself and be one of the best at what I do. By obtaining a orthopedic certification, I can expand my knowledge and network, enhancing my ability to provide the best possible care.
Action Plan: I will complete and document 2000 hours of practice in a orthopedic setting. Additionally, I will become a member of the APTA Section on Orthopedics and attend their annual conferences, along with the Advance Clinical Practice in Orthopedics course. Finally, I will join a local OCS study group to help with preparing for the OCS exam.
4. By my 5th year as a licensed PT, I will be a clinical instructor (CI) to physical therapy and physical therapy assistant students.
Why?: I have been fortunate enough to have CIs that love the profession and truly want me to succeed as a student; they have provided me with the tools to become a better therapist and have caused me to become even more sure that I have chosen the right profession. I want to provide future generations of PT and PTA students with these same positive experiences and desire for the profession.
Action Plan: First, I will complete the Credentialed Clinical Instructor Program. Next, I will reflect on different learning styles and ensure that I am practicing adapting my teaching style to my patients so that I can do the same with my students. Finally, I will reach out to colleagues and nearby physical therapy and physical therapy assistant schools to express my interest in taking on a student.