We're getting to know students from every program at the Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Submit your own details for Student Spotlight consideration by filling out our brief form.

Q: What 3-5 words would your biggest fans use to describe you?

A: Kind, driven, passionate, positive.

Q: What is your favorite way to spend free time?

A: I love going to the gym as well as practicing yoga! Exercise is such a vital aspect of my life. I love pushing my body to its limits and watching myself grow both mentally and physically during the process.

Q: Why did you choose Wayne State University's Doctor of Physical Therapy program?

A: When I was applying to PT schools, WSU was the only one that did interviews. It's important for physical therapists to be empathetic, caring and good communicators, so while our applications matter, Wayne State went beyond what was on paper. I appreciated their extensive efforts to get to know me as both a student and an individual. Wayne State also demonstrated a family-like environment that was very welcoming. This kind environment in combination with the program's impressive statistics made me feel confident in my choice.

Q: Why did you choose to pursue physical therapy?

A: I chose this field due to my passion for helping others, my love of human anatomy, and my passion for physical and mental health and wellness.

Q: Tell us about a classroom, lab or clinical experience you enjoyed or excelled in.

A: My clinical anatomy lab is my favorite class so far! I have the opportunity to study human cadavers, which is such an amazing experience. Working with cadavers is extremely helpful for those who are visual learners like me, and truly helps me further understand the human body and why it functions the way it does.

Q: Tell us about a leadership role you hold.

A: Within my class, I am one of the chairs of the Sunshine Committee! My classmate Carolyn Albom and I created this committee in effort to spread positivity to our cohort during stressful times. We send out inspirational messages, health and wellness tips, and celebrate birthdays. Everyone in our program is meant to be here, and the Sunshine Committee strives to never let them forget that!

Q: Do you have any words of wisdom for students following in your footsteps?

A: Take a step back during the moments you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or stressed and remind yourself that you are living your dream! You've worked so hard for so much of your life to get into graduate school and now you're here and doing it! Instead of complaining or competing, remember your "why" and stay positive throughout the process.

Q: Share a recent accomplishment that made you proud of yourself.

A: I scored in the top 5 of my class on my very first clinical anatomy lab practical. I am very proud of this accomplishment, as it helped me establish more confidence in myself, which I can carry with me throughout the remainder of my program.

Q: What are your career goals?

A: I currently see myself working within an inpatient hospital setting, but I am only in the first semester of my program, so I'm looking toward to learning about the various areas of physical therapy I could pursue.

Physical therapists are dynamic health professionals who develop, coordinate and utilize select knowledge, skills and techniques in planning, organizing and directing programs for the care of individuals whose ability to function is impaired or threatened by disease or injury. The goal of PT is to enhance a person's quality of life and their ability to participate in activities. The Doctor of Physical Therapy program application process opens July 1 and the deadline is Oct. 15. WSU Applebaum information meetings for prospective students take place at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month.

An anchor in urban health care

The Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is built on more than 100 years of tradition and innovation in the heart of Detroit. We have grown deep roots in our city, harnessing its powerhouse hospital systems and community service organizations as vibrant, real-world training grounds for students, with an ongoing focus on social justice in health care. And our research at all levels - from undergraduates to veteran faculty members - translates into creative solutions for healthier communities.

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering approximately 350 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to more than 25,000 students.