Jennyfer Oh is no stranger to winning awards, but that doesn’t mean she’s still not surprised when she receives one.
In December, Oh accepted the first academic achievement award given out by West Coast University’s doctor of physical therapy program during its inaugural hooding ceremony.
“I didn’t even know this was coming,” Oh said while clutching the award after the event, “but now that it’s here, I’m definitely putting it in plain sight. I’m going to put it where everybody can see. I’m so proud.”
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Tell us about being in WCU’s first graduating DPT cohort
Being part of the first cohort was definitely an adventure because none of us actually knew what was going to happen but, like it was mentioned throughout the ceremony, we had a lot of trust in the professors, a lot of trust in the education system so I think we were properly guided towards the right direction the whole way. And we made it!
Why did you choose to join WCU’s DPT program?
I chose West Coast University because my professor from undergrad actually told me about this program. He told me that there was a strong core of faculty who were beginning this new program up in Los Angeles and I’m from there, so it was like moving back home. It wasn’t that hard of a decision because it was really stressed that there would be a lot of one-to-one mentorship. WCU has an open-door policy. They really are going to work that much harder in order to make sure that we’re successful and I think that really drew me into this program.
What do you like most about being a physical therapist?
The best part about PT is just knowing that I’m there trying to help people towards the right direction and to know that and I honestly truly care about these people, all of my patients. If it makes them feel that much better then I get so much satisfaction from my job. It doesn’t feel like a job because I’m constantly interacting with people and I’m learning something every day. I think that’s what I really love about this profession.
What’s next for you after graduation?
I’m still not completely done with my education. I’m pursuing a neurologic residency program after this and until then I plan on working. Ultimately, I really want to treat the neurologic population and that’s what I’m going to specialize in. Rehabilitation for the neural population is vast and extensive and it’s something that I actually did not know about. This current concept of neuroplasticity, it’s amazing how much PT can be utilized, if utilized properly. I think that’s also what I want to advocate for the importance of neuroplasticity as well.
What was the best thing about your cohort?
Whenever we were faced with challenges, it made us unite that much stronger. You know how they say two heads are better than one? So, 36 heads are better than one. We all kind of came together and overcame these challenges. I think we each learned from that experience and we grew to the people we are today.
What should people know about WCU’s DPT program?
I don’t think people should be intimidated to give West Coast a chance because, ultimately the professors here really do care about us. I think if anybody is hesitant about pursuing PT, I think coming to West Coast and doing the DPT program will just solidify that resolve.
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.
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