Should I keep trying to get into PT school

[ClementC]

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Hello,

So...sophomore year, I changed my major from just Exercise Science to Pre-Physical Therapy. Originally, I would dream of personal training, owning a business, and making lots of money. Eventually, I became more realistic and began pursuing PT as it was the most optimal option for my interest, job security, salary, and a passion for the field I was already virtually ingrained in. However, I did not do well in the non-Exercise Science science courses and my GPA decreased (I also failed PreCal twice). The main factor was not partying or drugs (I had not intentions of partying and even "enjoying" college as I merely wanted to come out successfully for the advancement of my family), but rather personal difficulties. The result is a 2.68 GPA with a myriad number of courses taken, making it difficult to reverse my GPA as a second-semester senior.

Currently, as a senior I am $50,000 in debt about to graduate in a few weeks with an Exercise Science degree (which means basically nothing attained to even dent my debt). My intentions were to apply to PT school by the end of the year after taking and re-taking a couple of extra courses, but is the extra expense even worth it? Also, I decided to apply to an online Master's program in order to delay my loan payments and hopefully make me more marketable. I have a couple of fitness certifications for training and have worked as a trainer (one year) and strength coach (interning or volunteering for two short periods).

I do not know what to do and feel hopeless and depressed at times. Does anyone have any suggestions, guidance, or advice? Any would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

 

[bnwj89]

This is a pretty tough circumstance.
1. Your GPA is very low. What I would do is do your own calculations as to what your GPA could be if you retook key classes (the ones you failed or did very poorly in) and figure out exactly what would need to be done to get your GPA up to a more competitive range (Aim for about 3.5). This is assuming that the school you're looking at applying to replaces retakes with the better grade for their GPA calculations.

2. You already have a lot of debt. $50,000 is a lot to begin with, so if you were going to go to PT school, you're choices should be limited to low tuition schools (your state school). It would not be smart for you to go to a $85K school, +$30K in living expenses...you'd be in way too deep.

3. The good news is, yes, $50K is a lot, but you're not alone and its not that unmanageable. If you decide that PT school just isn't in the cards, then work your butt off to find an entry level job and you should be able to secure a $30K salary. Live as frugally as possible and you'll have it under control soon.

4. One more thing I thought of is PTA school. If you want to do something in this field, this might be the right choice. It's an associate's degree and may be more within your current reach. Tuition is very cheap, and you'll make a good salary when you graduate.

 

[ClementC]

Bnwj89,

I deeply appreciate your detailed response. I will consider them and hopefully make a smart decision.

Thank you.

 

[WarriorPT]

PT schools don't always know what they want in a candidate until they see it. Focus on having a HIGH 2-year GPA. Your last 2 years of study before school. This can demonstrate 'readiness' for PT school if your grades are excellent.

 

[Lolawashere]

I agree with BNWJ regarding PTA school. PTAs make a pretty good salary considering the debt to income ratio. You probably have all the pre-requisites for PTA school so that would help cut costs. PTA school is only 2 years and far cheaper tuition wise. Hold your head up! You have options! And if PT school is still your ultimate goal, you'd be far more competitive as an applicant if you were already a licensed PTA. Good luck and keep us posted!

 

[NewTestament]

PTA school would probably be your best option at this point. Your GPA is low and even if you spent two years trying to improve your grades, there is no guarantee you would get in. PTA's make a good salary but it costs <$10k to become one.