Grateful by Mallory

Grateful by Mallory - May 2018 Scholarship Essay

Diverse experiences provide individuals the ability to become independent thinkers and open-minded scholars. Exposure to a different setting, opportunity, and community profoundly deepened my passion for pursuing a Doctorate of Physical Therapy.
One year ago, I was given the opportunity to become a volunteer at Fit 4 Recovery, an adaptive fitness and neurological recovery center. Through this experience, I assisted individuals ranging from high level, complete quadriplegic to low level, incomplete paraplegics. I was exposed to hands-on assistance, adaptive methodology, and in-depth knowledge of neurological complications. Beyond a professional expansion of knowledge and interest in neurological disorders, I personally flourished after interacting and connecting with the clients at Fit 4 Recovery. The ability to meet people who garner incredible optimism, humor, knowledge, and passion after experiencing unimaginable, life-altering injuries was truly remarkable.
As an active participant in my volunteer experience, I gained a greater perspective for the activities I continuously took for granted everyday. This new perspective further prompted my interest in assisting individuals with neurological disorders in promoting a more functional standard of living for all.
Although saddened this year by the conclusion of my volunteer experience at Fit 4 Recovery, it was exhilarating to see the difference adaptive fitness can make in an individual’s life. This experience solidified my interest in pursuing a health-care career by reminding me that we all can make a difference in the lives of others. After witnessing the difference Fit 4 Recovery was making in the lives of others, I was inspired to find a similar occupation also promoting the health of all. My journey to achieve these aspirations will begin this fall as a Doctorate of Physical Therapy student. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to volunteer at Fit 4 Recovery because it genuinely shaped my own perspectives, aspirations, and interests for the future.