Career Goals to Achieve in Ten Years' Time by Kaylie

Career Goals to Achieve in Ten Years' Time by Kaylie - March 2020 Scholarship Essay

I am currently studying for my bachelors of science in athletic training. I plan to go back to school to earn my doctorate in physical therapy. My goal is to work in a pediatric hospital, where, with both of these degrees, I will be able to work with the children through their rehabilitation longer than I would be able to with only one degree. My own reconstructive knee surgery is what pushed me to go into the healthcare field in the first place, and one of the only things to help me get through the tediousness of rehab was the bonds I made with all the healthcare professionals that helped me. By being able to work with the kids longer, I will be able to form those bonds that I believe to be crucial to maintain a positive mindset throughout the recovery process. I want to be able to work with patients that have chronic illnesses, as well as with student athletes that sustained an injury. With the medical breakthroughs of today, once debilitating injuries are now only season-ending. I want to be with these kids from the start of their rehabilitation to the return to their sport. I also am excited to work with kids that have chronic illnesses, because I know that having a friendly face that they can count on seeing every day can make a big difference.
Positivity makes a big difference when going through rehabilitation, as I know firsthand. I, myself, struggled with depression during my recovery, and I want to be able to try and prevent as much negativity as I can. Just knowing that someone is there to help you, and wants you to succeed can make a huge difference. I hope to be that positive difference in a child’s recovery from chronic and acute injuries and illnesses when I work in a pediatric hospital.