@Romazicon I know you interviewed at UTSW and got to learn more about their program, faculty, and students firsthand. Do you feel like you have the same familiarity with twu since they didn't have an official interview day? (As far as the vibe of the current DPT classes goes, relationships among the faculty, and faculty's accessibility/support of students goes)? I know how well qualified twu faculty is and how well prepared the students are to enter clinical practice but was just wondering more about those less tangible aspects of the program that often come to light on an interview day/open house it seems... just wondering if that's at all at play as you try to make a decision?
That is a very great question that I feel I cannot answer fully. I've heard great things about both programs. I did get to see UTSW first hand and met the professor who interviewed me, the 1st years students (had lunch and tour with them), and the school as a whole. I really loved it and I can see myself attending there already! I never felt intimidated by the students, faculty, and admissions director there (although the med students stared when we toured campus
). I've also observed 2 PTs (Peds and Outpatient orth) who graduated from there (2012, 2013) and the way the work, think, and just the overall feel of their professional skills is amazing! They practice PT exactly how I want to!
TWU though...sigh. This is tough. I've heard great things about that program as well. I work as a tech and one of the PTs employed was accepted to both programs (and had UTSW as #1), but when he attended the TWU forum to meet the faculty and school, he changed his mind! He said that it made a whole lot of difference when he attended the forum. He felt a better vibe from the faculty there and he said that "they came about as more caring that UTSW." From my experience during the interview process and acceptance I felt really wanted. I felt cared for, and I felt part of the family at that point. So that's why it's hard for me.
I've always wanted to go to UTSW ever since I found out about PT school. It was a goal for myself that I felt I would never achieve (or would be so difficult to grasp!). The fact that I am now accepted into the program gives me a sense of accomplishment and it's like a fairytale now. I wanted to go there, I dreamed of going there, I applied there, I interviewed there, and now I got accepted there. So...that's where my heart lies.
Don't get me wrong, I want to go to TWU Dallas so bad too! This is so frustrating (in a good way). I feel wanted, but I hate to turn down a great school.. But it's okay since I'm going to my dream school. But but but..
I'm so fortunate to even have a choice. I'm not taking it for granted. I will choose soon.
UTSW vs TWU... to be continued.
