May 21 2019
Kennison, Kate
Professional Goal Statement
Throughout my career, my goal is to remain passionate and driven about helping others through movement. I plan to remain knowledgeable with current research and legislation in order to provide evidence-based, informed care and to serve as an advocate for patients. I hope to grow in my area of interest, pediatrics, through practical experience and continuing education. Above all, I hope to share my passion with my patients, helping them explore and find value within their own abilities.
Career Plan
May 2015:
- Bachelor of Science in Physical Education (Area of Concentration – Exercise Science), University of Central Missouri
- Bachelor of Science in Health Studies (Area of Concentration – Pre- Physical Therapy), University of Central Missouri
July 2015: Rehab Technician, The University of Kansas Hospital
August 2016: Began Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Clinical Rotation I: North Carolina Center for Physical Therapy – Durham, NC (Outpatient Orthopedics, 8 weeks)
- Clinical Rotation II: UNC Children’s Hospital – Chapel Hill, NC (Acute Pediatrics)
- Clinical Rotation III: Johnston Health Clayton – Clayton, NC (Acute General Medicine)
- Clinical Rotation IV: Duke Pediatrics at Meadowmont – Chapel Hill, NC (Outpatient Pediatrics)
July 2019: Sit for National Physical Therapy Exam
August 2019: Earn Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Begin full-time employment in either acute care pediatrics or outpatient pediatrics in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
January 2022: Begin exploring Pediatric Residency Programs
2025: Finish Pediatric Residency Program
2026: Sit for Pediatric Certified Specialist exam
2030: Become a Clinical Instructor (CI)
Self-Assessment
- Strengths
- Effective communication with patients, families, and peers in practice
- Flexibility within the work environment
- Enthusiasm for problem-solving
- Strong academic background
- Exposure to pediatric clinical practice, including acute care, NICU, school system, and outpatient settings
- Areas for Professional Development
- Supervision and direction of PTAs and technicians
- Application of outcome measures to different practice settings
- Expertise regarding billing and reimbursement
- Continuing education in pediatrics, including general knowledge of orthoses and equipment options
Objectives
In order to broaden my knowledge and skills within pediatrics and the physical therapy profession at large, I plan to:
- Graduate from UNC’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program in August 2019
- Pass the National Physical Therapy Exam and obtain licensure by August 2019
- Finish a Pediatric Residency Program by 2025
- Obtain PCS (Pediatric Certified Specialist) by 2027
- Become a CI by 2030
- Obtain Certification for Schroth Method for Scoliosis Treatment
Specific Strategies
- Elective courses completed:
- Advanced Orthopedics
- Integrated Clinical Experience – Orthopedics
- Advanced Neuromuscular Intervention
- Work in an acute or outpatient pediatric setting that offers mentorship upon graduation
- Maintain APTA membership, including involvement in the Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy
- Complete continuing education courses in order to build upon my current knowledge and experience within pediatrics
- Attend the Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy Annual Conference yearly
- Volunteer at least monthly for community organizations supporting local children in need
- Attend required Schroth Certification Courses
Product Examples
- Capstone Project:
- The Value of Providing Early Mobility to Infants with Motor Impairments: For Patients, Families, and Physical Therapists
More information can be found at the following link: http://dptcapstone.web.unc.edu/2019/03/28/the-value-of-providing-early-mobility-to-infants-with-motor-impairments-for-patients-families-and-physical-therapists/#comments
- Relevant Coursework:
- Advanced Orthopedics Final Course Paper: Differential Diagnosis and Treatment of Pediatric Hip Pain
- Evidence-Based Practice II: Critically Appraised Topic
- Topics in Health and Wellness Promotion: Annual Physical Therapy Exam for Children Diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis
Reflective Statement
I came to UNC with the understanding that I would likely be practicing in the Midwest upon graduation. Although the thought of beginning my career far from the resources and professional support system I would build was initially quite intimidating, I now feel prepared to make this transition. The didactic and clinical exposure I have gained over the past three years have given me the tools needed to serve a diverse spread of patients. The faculty members at UNC have taught me the value of evidence-based practice, and the pursuit of lifelong learning. These experiences have augmented my passion for working with pediatric populations, and have given me the confidence in utilizing my clinical skills in a new geographical region. I am so grateful for the foundation I have built for my career through didactic work and clinical experiences at UNC. I plan to continue to build upon this foundation through provision of quality care to my patients, service to my community, and commitment to my professional organizations.
Kate: We will miss you in NC! Good luck to you as you transition to work. You have done a great job here as evidenced by your portfolio! Good work. Lisa
Kate,
Good luck as you transition into working in Kansas City! Thanks for sharing your portfolio of accomplishments and it looks like you are well-prepared to start your career. Good luck to you!
Jennifer
Kate
I really enjoyed reading your portfolio and all the great evidenced-based products you have produced while in the program!! I really enjoyed being a mentor on your CAPStone and you definitely have a product that you can take with you into the clinic to benefit both clinicians and parents! I am sorry to hear you are leaving NC but know you will have great success in Kansas City. You would be a great candidate for a pediatric residency program in the future:)
Best of luck
Debbie