Five Student Experiences at the APTA Combined Sections Meeting

The Bigger Picture

"As students, we tend to get tunnel vision with our studies and school and passing the next test or practical. CSM is something EVERY student should experience. It’s an amazing experience that breaks open that tunnel vision and allows you to see the bigger picture of our profession. You get to be surrounded by thousands of people who have varying perspectives, practice different techniques, have diverse ideas, and even some who are pioneers in our field of medicine. Yet, in spite of these differences, improving patients lives is everyone’s goal. It is the best experience to be surrounded by people who love what you love to do and practice what you practice. You get to explore the host city, attend very informative classes, explore a massive exhibit hall, and NETWORK. It’s an eye opening, fun experience and every one should go to CSM at least once! It’s worth it."

Cambria Carson, SPT

TSPTA President 

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

Pushing for SPTA Representation

“This year, there were 15000 attendees at CSM. Approximately 7500 of those were students, 4000 of those were PT professionals and the total PTA count was under 200....let that just sink in for a moment. PTA’s made up 1 percent of the total attendance. When we look at everything that is affecting PTA’s, such as reimbursement rates and more education requirements, this is the time to be a part of a crucial conversation for the future of our profession. There was no better platform than CSM to talk about these things with peers and fellow PT/PTA students! The networking at CSM opens a whole new door of opportunity for involvement in your passions, whether that be the section that coincides with your career path or a special interest group. CSM was a great learning opportunity, showing me both how far we’ve come and how far we have to go!”

Shelby Nail, SPTA

TSPTA PTA Delegate

South Plains College

Keep the Momentum Going

"CSM was a fantastic chance for students like myself to step away from our small school communities and get a look at the much bigger picture of everything our profession really is. It was awesome to be in the same place as 17,000+ other individuals who care about Physical Therapy and want to improve the lives of their patients through movement. We can sometimes be so focused on the little things, that we forget to truly appreciate the amazing group we chose to be a part of. The conference reminded me that our profession is strong, and we all have our role to continue advocating for it to keep the momentum going into the future!"

Erik Calzada, SPT, ATC

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

Getting Inspired
"I was overwhelmed but mostly excited to attend my first CSM but it was everything I hoped it would be. After attending CSM, I now have a better understanding of what the physical therapy profession means to me and how I can better advocate for my profession. It’s incredible to see so many practicing PT/PTA's, students, and educators coming together to teach and encourage one another. I have grown personally and professionally and I couldn’t be more proud of the physical therapy profession."
Samantha Guerrero, SPT
The Univeristy of Texas at El Paso

Empowering Connections
"My overall takeaway from CSM was that good therapists connect with and empower people. The best systems of intervention seemed to revolve around empowering the patient to direct their recovery and conveying true empathy to these patients. I was delighted to see that the most effective therapy techniques can be based around personal connection."
Zak Manthe, SPT

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center