Dear Overzealous Applicant

Dear overzealous applicant,

I know that physical therapy school is competitive but you don’t want to go into the application trying to apply to every school. Before you start the application process you should:

1. Visit schools 

The website is completely different from the experience of being on campus. I recommend looking into when the school will have an open house. If the school doesn’t have an open house for the program just call and ask. I’m positive someone will be happy to give you a tour and answer questions about the program.

2. Deal breakers 

Come up with a list of a few things that you expect from the program 

For example, my deal breakers are:

Community outreach in underserved areas

Location

Diverse atmosphere 

Reasonable tuition

Mentorship 

Scholarship opportunities ( if available)

 While you are trying to impress the school they should be trying to impress you that their school is where you should come for your education.

3. Compose a list of your top 5 schools to apply to 

Applying to more than 5 schools is excessive and if I would’ve thought it through my first time around it could have saved me hundreds of dollars.

4. Set aside money and compose a budget for the entire application process.

Keep up with how much money you are spending on everything. The last thing you want to do is pay for something you’ve already paid for.

5. Don’t come up with a plan B until you’ve heard from every school.

It only takes one acceptance. If you don’t get in your first cycle don’t be discouraged. I’ve talked to so many students that said they applied two or three times before getting accepted. Instead of a pity party call every school and talk to admissions and see what you can do to improve your chances for next year. NEVER GIVE UP!!!

“ We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.”

-Maya Angelou