Questions to Ask a Physical Therapist as a Student
Essential questions for students to ask a physical therapist to learn about the profession, career paths, and educational requirements.
1What made you choose physical therapy as a career?
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What made you choose physical therapy as a career?
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Why this works
Understanding their motivation helps you see if your own reasons align with the reality of being a physical therapist.
2What does a typical day look like for you?
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What does a typical day look like for you?
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Why this works
Gives you a realistic view of the daily responsibilities and schedule of a practicing physical therapist.
3What are the most rewarding aspects of being a physical therapist?
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What are the most rewarding aspects of being a physical therapist?
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Why this works
Helps you understand what keeps them motivated and what you might find fulfilling in the profession.
4What are the biggest challenges you face as a physical therapist?
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What are the biggest challenges you face as a physical therapist?
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Why this works
Provides honest insight into the difficulties and pressures of the profession.
5What educational path did you take to become a physical therapist?
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What educational path did you take to become a physical therapist?
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Why this works
Gives you a roadmap for the educational requirements and helps you plan your academic journey.
6What advice would you give to someone considering physical therapy school?
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What advice would you give to someone considering physical therapy school?
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Why this works
Gets practical advice from someone who has been through the process and understands the challenges.
7What specialties are available in physical therapy, and which interests you most?
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What specialties are available in physical therapy, and which interests you most?
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Why this works
Helps you explore different areas of physical therapy and understand what might appeal to you.
8How do you stay current with new techniques and research in physical therapy?
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How do you stay current with new techniques and research in physical therapy?
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Why this works
Shows the importance of continuous learning and how to keep up with the evolving field.
9What are the most important skills for success in physical therapy?
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What are the most important skills for success in physical therapy?
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Why this works
Helps you understand what qualities and abilities are most valued in the profession.
10How do you work with other healthcare professionals?
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How do you work with other healthcare professionals?
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Why this works
Shows the collaborative nature of healthcare and the importance of teamwork.
11What are the financial aspects of being a physical therapist?
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What are the financial aspects of being a physical therapist?
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Why this works
Important for understanding the economic realities of the profession, including debt and income.
12What are the opportunities for advancement and career progression?
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What are the opportunities for advancement and career progression?
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Why this works
Explores potential for promotions, increased responsibility, and long-term career development.
13How do you handle difficult patient cases or challenging situations?
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How do you handle difficult patient cases or challenging situations?
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Why this works
Important for understanding the emotional aspects of the profession and how to cope with difficult situations.
14What are the most common misconceptions about physical therapy?
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What are the most common misconceptions about physical therapy?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the reality versus the perception of the profession.
15How do you approach patient education and self-care?
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How do you approach patient education and self-care?
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Why this works
Shows the importance of empowering patients with knowledge and tools for self-management.
16What are the opportunities for research or teaching in physical therapy?
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What are the opportunities for research or teaching in physical therapy?
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Why this works
Explores different career paths within physical therapy beyond just clinical practice.
17How do you handle the physical demands of the job?
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How do you handle the physical demands of the job?
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Why this works
Important for understanding the physical requirements and how to maintain your own health.
18What are the most important ethical considerations in your practice?
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What are the most important ethical considerations in your practice?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the moral and ethical challenges physical therapists face.
19How do you handle patient confidentiality and medical records?
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How do you handle patient confidentiality and medical records?
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Why this works
Ensures they follow proper protocols for protecting patient health information.
20What would you do differently if you could start your physical therapy career over?
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What would you do differently if you could start your physical therapy career over?
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Why this works
Provides valuable hindsight and lessons learned from their experience.
Learning About Physical Therapy as a Student
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Before You Start
Research the Profession
Learn about the different areas of physical therapy and what the profession involves before meeting with a PT.
Prepare Your Questions
Have a list of thoughtful questions ready, but be flexible and ask follow-up questions based on their responses.
Dress Professionally
Wear appropriate attire that shows respect for the healthcare environment and the PT's time.
During the Conversation
Listen Actively
Pay attention to their responses and ask follow-up questions to show genuine interest.
Take Notes
Write down important insights and advice to reflect on later.
Ask About Shadowing
Inquire about opportunities to shadow them or observe their practice to gain hands-on experience.
After the Conversation
Reflect on Your Experience
Think about what you learned and how it affects your interest in physical therapy.
Send a Thank You Note
Express gratitude for their time and the opportunity to learn from them.
Consider Next Steps
Use your experience to guide your next steps in exploring physical therapy as a career.