The physical therapists were always explaining and teaching me new things, in regard to physical therapy, biomechanics of the body and anatomy. They allowed me to ask all the questions I wanted. I was able to work hands on with patients, learn about their injuries and observe evaluations given to patients.
What I wish was different
Nothing, I loved everything about my internship. I worked with nice individuals who took the time to teach and explain new things to me.
Advice
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Athletico Physical Therapy Intern
June - July 2018 • Rock Island, IL
What I liked
The connections I made and experiences I had through being in a physical therapist's typical environment
What I wish was different
I wish I was able to perform rehabilitative movements on patients.
Advice
I would advice to study as much of the human anatomy as possible so that when you are interning, you will be able to apply everything you learned to real life situations.
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Clinical Rehabilitation Aide
May 2018 • Wheaton, IL
What I liked
I love getting to work with patients and other coworkers at the clinic. I really enjoyed making connections with patients I helped, and I enjoyed that aspect of the job. Working as a rehab aide keeps you busy, as you are constantly helping the clinic in many forms. Between stretching patients, explaining their exercise plan, cleaning treatment tables/equipment, scheduling appointments, answering calls about insurance and more, there is so much to stay busy with! It can be a face paced work environment, but the staff at Athletico Wheaton East has made it a great experience!
What I wish was different
While I understand I am intern and the Physical Therapists have the degree and expertise, I do wish I was paid more for the work I do. As I mentioned earlier, some days in the clinic were absolutely chaotic and I (and many coworkers) believe aides should receive greater compensation for the major role we play in the patient's PT experience. I also wish there had been more scheduled training sessions to help explain my responsibilities, rather than learning everything on the fly.
Advice
Work hard no matter how much you know and don't be afraid to ask questions. There is a lot to learn at the beginning, but don't let this discourage you. If you stick with it, and have a good attitude about it, patients and coworkers alike will notice and appreciate the work you are doing. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by the work you have to do, but have a short memory and don't be deterred by failure (because you will fail and that's okay)! Also, get to know people, whether patients or coworkers. People matter, and investing in those around you may be tiring, it pays dividends when you make strong connections with someone.
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Physical Therapy Aide
June 2015 • Rolling Meadows, IL
What I liked
seeing major for first hand
What I wish was different
more hands on experience
Advice
good for getting feet in the door
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Observational Intern
June - August 2017 • Chicago, IL
What I liked
Hands-on experience with Physical Therapy patients and assisting the physical therapists with clinical activities.
What I wish was different
More time! Make sure you talk to your supervisor or manager about wanting more hours. If you don't clarify this from the start, it might be hard for them to arrange time for you later on.
Advice
My advice to an intern would be don't be shy. You're an intern in a professional workplace. While you may be timid at first, it's not professional to come across as too quiet or too shy. Talk, be respectful, and be comfortable. If you're not comfortable, you're probably in the wrong place. Make sure you give a good impression and talk about relevant things or ask relevant questions. Your employer, supervisor, or manager will see that you're putting in an effort! No one likes a wallflower. Be interactive and as useful as you can be!
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Rehabilitation Intern
May - June 2018 • Grand Rapids, MI
What I liked
I loved the professional atmosphere, the healthy learning environment, and friendly staff that welcomed me in.
What I wish was different
Advice
Study what you had learned every day to build your knowledge and relate it what you learn in the classroom
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Rehab Aide
August 2018 • Chicago, IL
What I liked
Job is in field of interest.
What I wish was different
Advice
Can be overwhelming at first. Communication is important.
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Rehabilitation Aide
June 2018 • Milwaukee, WI
What I liked
What I wish was different
Advice
For anyone going into Physical Therapy, this is a great clinic to gain experience on treating patients, small talk, and how to work on an integrative team setting.
