Self Directed Learning
“This didn’t just come to you. It happened because you did something for yourself. You took action and that caused things to change around you.”
From Michiko Aoyama “What we are looking for is in the library”
Professional Development
During my first clinical rotation, I attended the Hawaii Health Workforce Summit, where I gained valuable insights into the state’s healthcare challenges and opportunities. One highlight was the Rural Policy Presentation by Lisa Grove, which examined systemic healthcare barriers and their profound impact on Maui’s community. Engaged in the discussion, I raised questions about balancing modernization with cultural preservation—specifically, how to expand technological and medical resources without contributing to gentrification. Beyond the presentations, I explored interactive booths showcasing innovations like sleep apnea technology and spoke with insurance representatives about policy benefits. I also connected with HPU faculty to learn about their new healthcare initiatives. This experience not only expanded my perspective on interdisciplinary collaboration but also strengthened my networking skills as I engaged with professionals across diverse healthcare fields.
Mentorship
As I approach the completion of my DPT Program, I am grateful for my peers and mentors that passed down their experience and expertise to help my journey to become a PT. Thats why I didn’t hesitate when opportunities to help those beginning their journey into PT are brought forth to me. I’ve had the chance to help nurture two individuals through their own journey. Through the HPT Mentorship program, I was able to connect with my mentee Isaak. Through this interaction, I was able to provide him resources such as self-made study guides and tips to help his journey as a PT. In addition to this program, I was able to be a mentor to an undergraduate friend of mine looking into getting into PT. Utilizing my connections with different clinics, I was able to set-up opportunities this upcoming summer to gain invaluable experience for my friend to shadow and participate in helping Neuro-based patients in the same clinic I was doing my clinical rotation. This shift from student to mentor provided a level of growth to my ability to facilitate lasting connections and articulate my experiences to next generation of PTs.
Social Responsibility
Outside of my academic and clinical responsibilities, I have actively sought opportunities to engage in community health initiatives that promote movement and wellness. One particularly meaningful experience was collaborating with Hawaii Pacific University’s Occupational Therapy program for their Go Baby Go event, where I assisted in constructing modified toy vehicles to enhance early mobility for children with neuromotor impairments. This initiative not only fostered independence in these children but also supported their overall developmental progress.
Additionally, I participated in HPU’s DPT Open House, where I partnered with fellow peer Kristine to lead an interactive exercise demonstration using BlazePods, followed by an educational session on assistive device selection for fall prevention. These experiences allowed me to merge my clinical knowledge with community outreach, emphasizing the importance of movement in health.
Through these events and various other acts of service, I have consistently leveraged my skills as a future physical therapist—whether through patient education, interprofessional collaborations, or public health advocacy. Each opportunity has reinforced my commitment to serving diverse populations while building lasting professional relationships that will undoubtedly enrich my career.