Student programs are all about getting real-world experience, and at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, that means hands-on learning, mentorship, and community impact. Faith Santangelo, a student programs participant at Ivy Rehab’s Allendale clinic, shares how her experience has helped her grow clinically and personally – proving why Ivy is a top choice for students looking to jumpstart their careers in physical therapy.
Connect with our Student Programs team today to learn more about available programs and how you can participate!
Why Choose Ivy Rehab for a Student Program?
For Faith, the decision was easy. After hearing glowing reviews from friends at Grand Valley State University, she knew Ivy Rehab would provide the supportive and engaging environment she was looking for. “
“I wanted to do my internship somewhere that I knew had a really good environment,” Faith explains. The clinic’s warm atmosphere, along with unique programs like Senior Fit and Walk Fit classes, made Ivy stand out.
Although her learning schedule didn’t allow her to participate in the Senior Fit classes, Faith eagerly took on a leadership role in the Walk Fit program. This weekly initiative, led by Faith and her clinic director Terry, involves guiding community members through stretching exercises and a walk. “It’s a great way to meet other community members. It’s nice to get out of the clinic for a little bit and just be somewhere different,” she says.
Hands-On Clinical Experience
In the clinic, Faith spends her days assisting therapists, ensuring patients have a seamless experience. “If they need me to help with an exercise, I’m there. If they’re double-booked and need an extra hand, they go to me,” she explains. Whether demonstrating exercises or keeping the clinic running smoothly, she’s gaining the skills that will set her up for success.
These responsibilities have allowed Faith to develop key skills essential for a career in physical therapy. “One of my biggest skills that I feel like I’ve developed is confidence and competency in demonstrating and communicating with patients,” she shares. Learning to tailor her communication style to different patients’ needs has been a rewarding challenge, helping her grow both personally and professionally.
Leadership and Community Outreach
Beyond her clinical duties, Faith has taken on a role in community outreach through Walk Fit. Each week, she sends out emails to participants, providing updates on upcoming sessions and sharing helpful resources. “It’s nice to be able to learn how to communicate and just provide some other resources to the people that come to Walk Fit,” she says.
Faith also accompanies her clinic director on visits to local sports teams, where they offer advice on injury prevention and foam rolling techniques. Speaking to young athletes has helped Faith build her public speaking and leadership skills. “We’ve gotten to talk to Allendale High School’s cross-country team about injury prevention and keeping their bodies healthy throughout the long seasons,” she recalls.
Broadening Horizons in Physical Therapy
One of the highlights of Faith’s internship has been the exposure to various specialties within physical therapy. “The really nice thing about Ivy is that they offer a lot of different things,” she says. From vestibular rehab to sports therapy, Faith has observed a wide range of treatments, which has broadened her understanding of the field. “It’s been really nice to see that physical therapy isn’t just one thing—there are so many possibilities and opportunities.”
This diversity has allowed Faith to work with different populations, from children and college students to older adults. “Being able to work and observe young kids and college-age students is a lot different from what I was used to,” she notes. The experience has enhanced her adaptability and deepened her passion for the profession.
Learning from Mentors
A significant part of Faith’s growth during her internship has come from her interactions with the experienced physical therapists at Ivy Rehab. “I’ve learned a lot about how to ask questions that are important and help educate me,” she says. Her mentors have guided her in everything from clinical techniques to the use of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) systems like Raintree.
Faith appreciates the collaborative environment at Ivy Rehab, where she feels supported and encouraged to learn. “It’s been really nice to be able to see that physical therapy isn’t just one thing,” she reflects. Her internship has not only solidified her career aspirations but also given her a deeper appreciation for the profession’s breadth and impact.
Advice for Future Interns
For students considering an internship at Ivy Rehab, Faith offers enthusiastic encouragement. “I would totally suggest researching Ivy and seeing all that the clinics have to offer,” she advises. By taking the time to understand the programs and opportunities available, interns can tailor their experience to their interests and make the most of their time at Ivy.
Faith’s positive experience at Ivy Rehab highlights the importance of a supportive and dynamic learning environment. Her story demonstrates how internships can be a transformative step in a student’s career journey, offering not just practical training but also personal growth and professional confidence.
A Steppingstone to a Bright Future
Faith Santangelo’s physical therapy internship at Ivy Rehab has been a comprehensive and enriching experience—one that has given her the tools she needs to succeed in her future career.
From clinical responsibilities and community engagement to mentorship and personal development, Ivy Rehab has offered Faith a well-rounded introduction to the world of physical therapy.
For students eager to gain real-world experience in a supportive and innovative setting, Ivy Rehab stands out as an ideal choice. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights that internships offer future physical therapists valuable opportunities to develop key skills in evaluating and treating patients, ensuring they are well-prepared for clinical practice. Learn more about Ivy’s Student Programs today!
Are you ready to start your own journey in physical therapy? Whether you’re interested in sports medicine, kinesiology, or orthopedics, Ivy Rehab offers the perfect environment to develop your skills and build your future!
Contact Ivy Rehab today to inquire about available programs and opportunities for students.
