Observing Community

   Michigan State provides its students with much opportunities to grow in their desired field of study. One of these sources of opportunities are campus organizations related to ones specific field of study. I am not currently in a group organization, however I got the opportunity to sit in on a meeting for the organization called the Pre-Phsycial Therapy Association (PPTA)                          

   At this meeting they gave me a a general idea of the benefits gained by being a part of this association. What I learned, is also listed on their website. Most associations at MSU have a website page similar to the PPTA. They informed me that the PPTA gives students the opportunity to:

• learn about the PT and OT fields through therapist visits and career information. 
• prepare for the graduate school application process
• build a support network of Pre-PT/OT students 
• learn about volunteer, research, and shadowing opportunities

PPTA's Mision statement: "To provide undergraduate students with the opportunities and information needed to be successful physical/occupational therapy program applicants" 

    By sitting in on this meeting I was able to point out differences in how these meetings are actually beneficial in comparison to the stereotypical representations that these student associations get. No, it is not just a bunch of "try hards" only being a part of this group for selfish reasons. Instead, it is a diverse group of college students that happen to want to make a difference in the field of Kinesiology. I plan on joining this association next year, and I would highly advise you do the same in your own respected fields.