In this blog, we hear from Ruth Boehling, the President of the Pre-Occupational and Physical Therapy Association (POPTA)
What is the goal of your student organization?
The goal of POPTA is to provide students the opportunity to discover more about the various disciplines of occupational and physical therapy, and prepare them with the tools to be successful in furthering their education and developing their career.
Who is welcome to join your student organization?
Anyone who is interested in physical or occupational therapy!
How can students connect with your organization?
https://www.instagram.com/popta_bing/
Why did you first join this student organization?
I joined POPTA so that I could find some guidance on how to approach a career in physical therapy. I found a great support system of students of all grade levels who were willing to help me. I am now grateful to be someone that is in a position to help other students who are also interested in physical and occupational therapy!
What are some examples of events or programs that your student organization participates in or plans?
We hold panels with current PTs and OTs during national physical therapy and occupational therapy months, panels of students accepted into graduate schools in the spring, and many other programs geared toward preparing students for graduate school and a career in physical or occupational therapy.
As a student leader, how important is it for students to get involved on campus?
I think it is very important to get involved on campus. Joining any student organization provides you with a community of like-minded individuals which can help you grow and become more prepared for the “real world.”
What skills to you feel members gain from being part of your organization?
Professionalism, organization, and communication to name a few.
