Attending physical therapy school at the University of Illinois in Chicago during what is now referred to as the late 20th century, was an eye-opening experience for me. As a high school and undergraduate student, academic work came easily to me, except for calculus. I coasted by relying primarily on my gut instincts and intuition. However, I found the academic expectations at PT school much more intense. I also found myself surrounded by much more intelligent and harder-working students. Though it should have been, this alone did not motivate me to push myself further. I needed someone to hold me accountable.
Dr. Jules Rothstein, my department chair, was a renowned physical therapy researcher, educator, and editor of the PT Journal. Although he was known for his incredible contributions to the field, he was not known for his gentle approach to students. He challenged his students and was not afraid to point out their shortcomings. In my first interaction with our cohort, he described how eight of us wouldn't finish and how "that was a shame because people who could have made it through were denied spots in the program to make room for us." It was challenging to be in his presence, so I decided to admire him from a distance.
When I had an opportunity to talk to Dr. Rothstein one-on-one, he was quick to tell me that I needed more than my intuition and ability to fill in gaps at this level. He paid me several compliments and said he admired my skills but that gut feelings were insufficient at this level, and he was sorry that no one had ever taught me to prepare academically. He said he wouldn't insult me by explaining what I needed to do to succeed because I already knew. He was "taking a moment to free me from the burden of thinking no one knew I was still winging it." Though challenging to hear, his words were a game-changer for me. They pushed me to hone my academic skills and utilize the resources around me.
Working with Alliance Physical Therapy Partners gave me the same feeling of being seen. I was doing enough to get by and could fill in the needed gaps, but I knew there was room for improvement. If left alone, I was unlikely to have the resources and motivation required to make those improvements. Working with people who can see your blind spots, pinpoint what you've been neglecting, and help you realize your potential is invaluable.
Alliance Physical Therapy Partners gave me that push and invested in my success. If they invested in me, I can confidently say they would invest in you. Although it can be hard work, retaining your identity while moving forward into areas you used to avoid is liberating. They will give you the tools needed and prepare you for the next level of success. Freeing you from the limitations caused by thinking no one knows you're winging it.
If you're looking for a physical therapy company to help you realize your full potential, look no further than Alliance Physical Therapy Partners. Our experts can help you see your blind spots and point out areas for improvement. Contact us today to learn more.