Expert: Susie Watts - 4/22/2009

Question
My son(21)is ADD (inattentive type), compassionate, patient, a great teacher,athletic. He very much wants to be a physical therapist and has been in two different universities in Michigan for the past 3 year.  He is very frustrated,as he cannot learn the higher level math and biology "I can't remember it."  He got a B- in organic chemistry, but a C- in Human Biology and then failed it the second time when he was trying to get a better grade.  He did PT internships and learned so much from experiencing it (he is very intuitive) but the U's demand these difficult classes (to weed out?) as the degree is now a doctorate.  Do you know of any schools for physical therapy or physical therapy assistant that takes a different approach?  Thank you for your help!  Susan Haughn

Answer
Unfortunately, most schools have similar requirements and higher level math and biology can frustrate many students.  I would suggest that he consider taking the classes at a community college in the summer if they are available because sometimes summer school courses are a little bit easier.  He may also need to have a tutor on a regular basis to get him through these classes or any others along this line.  The individual professors might be able to offer some suggestions for him too.  You might also take a look at Quinnipiac University in Connecticut and their physical therapy program.