Expert: Jenny - 5/3/2001

Question
I am in high school and am interested in your field of work, I can not find any good real information about being a P.T.A is there any way you could tell me about it? I just want to know simple things like how many years did you have to go to college. I am not worried about grades, mine are great! But I would like to know what type of diploma did you have to have, and are there any special classes that i can take in high school that might help me later in college? I would really appreciate it if you could supply me with at least a little bit of information. I love working with children and dont want to sit behind a desk all my life. Will this be a good job? I deeply appreciate your time. general stuff!
Sincerely,
Amanda Jenkins  

Answer
Hi Amanda!

First of all, I'd like to give you the address of the American Physical Therapy Association website:  it's http://www.apta.org
They have tons of good information, including free brochures and lists of good schools for becoming a PTA.

The degree is an Associates of Science degree, which takes about 2 years to achieve.  In high school, it would be great if you took biology, and if they have it, anatomy.  Health care terminology classes would be good, as well.  The ability to speak another language (or at least have taken some classes in it) looks great, and will help you when you get out in the field.   

One thing that looks GREAT on your application is volunteer hours put in at a physical therapy clinic.  Also, community service looks wonderful.  They are looking for well-rounded candidates.

One suggestion I have for you:  when you find the school with the PTA program you want to apply to, see what the "Non-PT" courses are....the englishes and maths and histories, etc, and TAKE THOSE FIRST!!!!  Do not try to take them while you are in the program, because the PT classes will take up all of your time and energy.  Also, even if it isn't required, I'd take both Anatomy and Physiology, and Anatomy and Physiology II, because the more you know about the body before you get into the program, the better you will do.



I hope this has answered your question! Please write back if I can help you further!

Best wishes,

Jenny