West Coast University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is all about empowering students to make a real impact on people’s lives. For Lilia F., that meant relocating from Northern California to Southern California to join WCU’s Center for Graduate Studies. Drawn by the supportive faculty and welcoming community, she’s found her place here, sharing how WCU has fueled her passion for physical therapy and helped her grow in ways she hadn’t expected.
Personal Inspiration
Lilia’s passion for physical therapy began with a deeply personal experience. Her love for sports and activities made physical therapy an ideal career path.
“What got me into PT was actually seeing my brother go through it when I was younger, and he wasn’t fully able-bodied,” she explained, reflecting on her younger years. “Seeing how the physical therapist kind of engaged him into getting back into activity and helping him get his motivation back… really brought to light at a young age that helping people is what I wanted to do.”
Choosing West Coast University
Lilia’s search for the right DPT program led her to WCU, where she felt a unique connection with the faculty and the student community.
“I knew I wanted to stay in California,” she said. “When I met the professors and interacted with them… they were the ones that really showed the most care to their students.” The compassion and dedication of the faculty have proven invaluable. “I can say most of those professors were the reasons why we continued and didn’t give up.”
Support from Faculty
Throughout her journey, Lilia has felt deeply supported by her professors, who have cultivated an encouraging and understanding environment. She noted one professor’s approach, saying, “He felt the energy that we were feeling in the room. He felt the nerves; he felt the anxiety. And he took the time to speak with us and tell us, you know, ‘Do your best, and that’s all that should matter.’” These reassurances have helped her, and her cohort gain the confidence to succeed.
A Cohort That Feels Like Family
The support within Lilia’s cohort has been just as meaningful. “No matter what, whenever something happened to a student, we backed each other up… we wanted to make sure our class was a family, and we had each other’s backs.” Lilia appreciates her bond with her classmates, who offer support through challenges and share in each other’s triumphs.
White Coat Ceremony: A Symbol of Transition
Recently, Lilia celebrated the White Coat Ceremony, a symbolic milestone for DPT students. “Today we’re doing our white coat ceremony, which signifies the end of our didactics… and now starting in September, we’re out in clinics treating patients.” This transition marks a significant shift from classroom learning to real-world clinical practice.
Preparing for Clinical Rotations
Lilia and her cohort are about to begin their full clinical rotations, where they will apply the skills, they’ve learned. Many will stay in California. However, some will choose to travel out of state. “I’m very excited for the hands-on… I’m ready to work with the patients, building that connection, seeing the results.”
Resources and Lasting Faculty Connections
WCU’s DPT program has equipped students with extensive resources, from faculty guidance to administrative support. Lilia emphasized the faculty’s enduring commitment: “Our professors have been there for us no matter what, and they even state to this day that they’re going to be with us even after. We can call them at any time.”
Advice for Future DPT Students
Lilia’s advice to prospective students is simple: “Do it. It definitely challenges you, but the most important thing that helps me, especially being far away from my family and friends, is to take time for yourself… because without yourself, you’re not going to get through the program. Without a mindset that is positive, you can get lost. Doing stuff that reminded me of who I am and what I love aside from studying… that’s really what helped me.” She believes in prioritizing personal well-being as the foundation for academic success.
Be a Part of the WCU Physical Therapy Community
West Coast University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program is more than an academic path; it’s a supportive, inspiring community that fosters the next generation of physical therapists. With dedicated professors, close-knit cohorts, and hands-on clinical experience, WCU’s DPT program prepares students like Lilia to thrive in a meaningful, patient-focused career.
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.
Call
Info Session