DPT Portfolios

Professional Goal Statement

After graduation I would like to work with patients with neurologic diagnoses in the outpatient and inpatient settings. I hope to have the opportunity to work in multiple settings to have a deep understanding of what patients experience in their continuum of care, in order to become a more skilled clinician. In my time at UNC I have been blessed to partake in opportunities that have affirmed and promoted my interest in working with patients with neurologic conditions. I have been able to work as an aid to multiple individuals in the community as well as have the honor to partake in the UNC Neuro STEP UP program. Through STEP UP I have received specific training to better serve individuals with neurodegenerative diseases, specifically MS, ALS and Parkinson’s, and have realized how many of these patient’s quality of life is transformed by their physical therapy care. I strive to be a clinician who is patient-centered and continues to grow in knowledge and skill to best serve my community.

Past Experience/Academic Career

May 2019: Biology, B.S. (Minor: Chemistry and German), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

August 2020 – 2023: Doctor of Physical Therapy – UNC Chapel Hill

July 2021: Acceptance into Neuro STEP UP scholarship program

Clinical Experience

2021: Peak Performance | Outpatient Orthopedics, Greenville NC

2022: UNC Center for Rehabilitation Care | Outpatient Neurology, Chapel Hill NC

2022: UNC Hospital | Acute Oncology, Chapel Hill NC

2022: Integrated Clinical Experience Elective | Outpatient Neurology, Chapel Hill NC

2023: Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation | Inpatient Rehab, Brain Injury and Stroke, Charlotte NC

Electives

• Advanced Orthopedic Assessment
• Teacher Scholar, Neuromuscular Assessment and Intervention I
• Integrated Clinical Experience – Outpatient Neurology
• Advanced Neuromuscular Intervention

Capstone Project

• Resource guide for patients with early, middle, and late stages of ALS including evidence-based exercise recommendations, picture-guides, pressure relief, and fatigue tracking
• Advanced ALS case study for Neuro STEP UP scholars

Examples of Work

ALS Resources Sample

ALS Case Study

Professional Objectives

• Take NPTE and obtain PT licensure (July 2023)
• Begin work as a physical therapist in an inpatient rehabilitation setting with a focus on patients with neurological conditions (August 2023)
• Become a clinical instructor (2026)
• Obtain Neurologic Clinical Specialty (2026)

 Strategies for Obtaining Professional Objectives

• Prepare for NPTE exam in July by utilizing a daily study plan
• Obtain employment at a rehab hospital that offers learning and mentorship opportunities
• Pursue further certification/training: Neurological Clinical Specialty, Brain Injury Specialist, Wheel Chair Seating Specialist
• Partake in continuing education courses to further my growth as a clinician
• Continue involvement with Neuro STEP UP scholarship program

Self-Assessment

Strengths

• Adaptability
• Interpersonal skills
• Communication skills
• Implementing evidence-based interventions into practice
• Life-long learning mentality

Areas for Professional Development

• Expanding knowledge of interventions
• Gaining knowledge of the healthcare system as a whole
• Involvement in community and national professional activities 

Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

One theme that constantly arose when I was out working in clinic was the need for advocacy. So many patients we worked with had gone through an experience where their injury permanently altered their mobility or cognition. Many patients in this position did not know how to navigate a complicated healthcare system in which they had to function. I noticed how my clinical instructors would often work beyond what was required of them to educate patients and families on the many aspects of rehabilitation and recovery. They also worked hard to communicate with all members of the medical team to ensure each patient was receiving the most thorough care possible. Physical therapists are in such a critical position to advocate for patients and also teach patients how to advocate for themselves during their recovery. The therapists I worked with served each patient with the same care and dedication and I saw how this type of commitment really transformed patient’s lives. I hope to be able to embolden and serve my patients in the same way.

Reflective Experience

I am grateful for all I have learned over the past three years during my time in the UNC DPT program. It has been a continuous time of growth and learning as a student and clinician. Each course and clinical experience has added to my knowledge and has prepared me to work with a variety of patient populations and diagnoses. I am especially grateful for the mentors I have gained through the DPT program and through my participation in the Neuro STEP UP program. I have had the great blessing of working with therapists who have a wealth of experience and knowledge. I look to emulate the qualities of those I have learned from and to build off of all I have been taught over these past three years. I am honored to join a profession that strives to improve and add to peoples quality of life and am excited for the journey ahead.

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