Jobs That Are Great for Pre-PT Students

[ZRocker87]

So I am graduating in December with a degree in physiology and will be going to PT school next fall. I am in need of a job for a period of about seven months and am really boggled as to what I will do. The most obvious answer would to become a physical therapy aide/tech at a clinic or hospital, but like so many other areas in the country, the region in which I live is really not hiring non-essential personnel. I'm looking for something in the medical/science field. I just wonder if anyone else here has been in the same situation as me and what you did for the period you were out of undergraduate but not yet in PT school.

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[dizzy88]

I was in your shoes December last year haha. I actually became a first aid/CPR instructor and also picked up some shifts doing biometric testing (in addition to my job as an aid/receptionist in a PT clinic). I really enjoy teaching, so the FA/CPR classes were a blast for me. Biometric testing pretty much consisted of taking blood draws, blood pressure, weight, circumference measures, etc. and explaining to people where they are, where they need to be, and some ideas on how to get there. Sort of a health coach. That was really enjoyable as well, especially when people were willing to take your advice and be proactive about improving their health.

 

[ZRocker87]

I would love to do all of that stuff. Unfortunately, the area I live in in Tennessee doesn't have too many biometric testing centers. Even if they did, I'm not sure how qualified I would be to do that since I'm not an exercise science major. I've taken classes in it, but it's not my primary major.

 

[Jollybg]

...along with the topic...

I too am needing a job, being pre-pt. One advantage I have is that I've been a caregiver the past 3 years and have experience working with PT's that provide therapy for the person I'm taking care of. Will this experience help me land a job as an assistant for a PT? What do you guys suggest I look for? Particularly seeking employment in the Bay Area (CA).

 

[ZRocker87]

The experience definitely isn't going to hurt you. But you aren't going to become a physical therapy assistant because you actually have to get a 2 year degree for that. You probably meant getting a job as a tech or aide though. I'm sure you technically meet all the qualifications to do that. However, you will probably find, just like I did, that SO many places are not using techs or aides anymore because they are really just a convenience to the physical therapist. They definitely aren't essential.

 

[Jollybg]

Yes.. Aid is what I meant. Yes, I'm planning on moving from LA to the Bay. Rather than putting all my effort into looking for a part time job in accounting or finance, utilizing my degree in business finance, while taking the remaining 6 classes for my prerequisites... I figured I can just focus my efforts into a position that I give me an advantage and hours for PT school.

 

[lee9786]

I plan on rocking out playing gigs along the US. Life is short my friend. Do something you like doing and find a way to get paid for it. Just my opinion. Once your in school that is all you will be doing most likely. Might as well get yourself fresh before the hammer falls and relax a bit.