Observation Hours

[BiffTheFlashRogers]

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The PT that I am currently shadowing suggested that I try to keep my hours split as evenly between settings as possible.

Last summer I picked up 30 hours in a private practice, and I am currently wrapping up 30 more hours in an elementary school this semester. I am in the process of making contact with inpatient rehab/outpatient hospital settings this summer. I can only get 8 hours at the inpatient rehab setting but will be able to get ~20 at the outpatient hospital setting.

Next fall I can probably get more hours at an inpatient hospital setting but it is not a guarantee. Would only having 8 hours inpatient hurt me greatly? I apply this upcoming cycle.

Also, I have the opportunity to return to the private practice I was at last summer again this summer. I figure if I picked up more there, even though it is a repeat, it would still help to have more hours. Is that accurate?

 

[02143]

If the private practice is your only option, I'd absolutely go back for more hours. If going back there is going to take away from new opportunities, I would go for the new opportunities. From my experience and understanding, schools love to see variety in hours because it can demonstrate an excellent understanding of the scope of PT practice. I think 30 is an excellent number to get the feel for a setting, but in my mind, having extra hours, even in the same setting, can't hurt you! Plus, maybe you can get an LOR out of it?

Unless there are specific requirements for the number of in patient hours, I would just go for the 8 and do the best with what you got. At least you will have some exposure to that area and can briefly mention it in interviews, if appropriate.

 

[BiffTheFlashRogers]

If the private practice is your only option, I'd absolutely go back for more hours. If going back there is going to take away from new opportunities, I would go for the new opportunities. From my experience and understanding, schools love to see variety in hours because it can demonstrate an excellent understanding of the scope of PT practice. I think 30 is an excellent number to get the feel for a setting, but in my mind, having extra hours, even in the same setting, can't hurt you! Plus, maybe you can get an LOR out of it?

Unless there are specific requirements for the number of in patient hours, I would just go for the 8 and do the best with what you got. At least you will have some exposure to that area and can briefly mention it in interviews, if appropriate.

Okay awesome, thanks for the second opinion!