Physical therapy school can be scary. You’re in a new chapter of your life, which means there’s plenty of uncertainty that’s pulling you out of our comfort zone. Feelings of nervousness, anxiety, doubt, and worry are completely normal when you begin PT school. However, most of the class tries to put on a brave face, so it could make us feel like we’re the only one who feels that way. If you’re a first-year PT student, have no fear! I’m here to tell you some of the common fears I had in PT school and what you can do to address those fears.
#1: The Fear of Making New Friends
I grew up with having many friends in many places, but finding my go-to group of friends to study and socialize with was difficult. I truly did not have a friend group until the end of my first year of PT school. Additionally, with online learning, it can be more difficult to establish friends. Here’s some practical ways to make friends in the classroom:
- Instead of being on your phone during breaks, take the time to get to know your classmates that sit beside you.
- Don’t eat lunch by yourself. Ask if you can join the mealtime conversation or accept their invitation to sit with you. Discuss what you’re eating, interests outside of school, their likes/dislikes about the profession. (If you prefer to enjoy your lunch in solitude, that’s perfectly fine.)
- Go to social events. If it’s your scene, put yourself out there or have your own party. Start with inviting 2 or 3 people for dinner and games/watching a movie.
- Have study buddy dates. Get a group together to go to the campus library. Reserve a study room and open it to your class. Take the time to ask questions if you don’t understand the concept or need to affirm your understanding.
My mom always told me that relationships are a two-way street, which means you may have to take the initiative and start the conversation. This also means that people may not return the invitation, and you may not vibe with their personality. That’s typical, but everyone in your cohort should at least be supportive and cordial to everyone. Friendships require a lot of trial and error, but you will find your people.
#2: The Fear of Talking to the Professor
In college, I occasionally met with the professor during their office hours. Now that I’ve completed didactics, I can say that I have met with every single professor at least once [mostly because I didn’t do well on the first exam]. I get it. There are some professors that come off as intimidating. Plus, if you’re not doing well in the class, there’s the notion that your professor thinks less of you. First, that is completely false. Your professors are actually supportive. No one wants to see a student fail, so they will do everything in their power to help you be successful. Second, it’s easier if you actually talk to your professor regularly (e.g. ask questions in class, say hi to them in the hallway, talk to them during 5-minute class breaks). Lastly, talking to the professor shows that you care. This is the time you really have to humble yourself and ask for help. Personally, I think my meetings with the professors to talk about my progress in each course was considered when they made the decision to let me come back and restart.
#3: The Fear of Failure
EVERYONE has this fear. I was always an excellent student, and I held those same expectations when I entered grad school. Grades on exams and practicals have high stakes as they are assessments of our knowledge and used to determine our readiness to be a general physical therapist. The fear is only heightened after one occurrence of failure.
To overcome this fear, you have to understand why this fear exists. Are you afraid you’re going to fail your exam because you didn’t study enough? If so, look back at how you spent your time outside of class. Are you afraid of failing because it comes from a lack of confidence? If that’s the case, remember that you are in control and capable. Build up your confidence with continuous knowledge review and skills practice with peers. Does your fear of failure stem from confusion? Go into practicals with a game plan! Think of hypothetical scenarios. Then, try and implement your game plan before the practical/exam. Also, I’m also a firm believer in God giving me the power to overcome my fears and handling my worries. If you are spiritual, seek those high powers.
Personally, I have experienced failure many times in PT school. If you happen to fail, it’s okay to feel upset and disappointed, but you also have to pick yourself up and keep truckin’ so you don’t put yourself in an avalanche of failures like me.
FEAR in PT school is very real, and if it’s not addressed in a timely manner, it could be detrimental to your academic success. I’m sure I’m not the only one who had a hard time making friends, felt awkward talking to professors, or brought myself down after receiving a low grade. Other ways to handle negative stress and worries in a healthy include journaling and talking to someone (preferably a professional therapist). Hopefully these tips help you to get over these fears. What are some of your fears in PT school? Feel free to comment down below as this is a safe space.
As always, you can follow me and my journey #forthedpt on Instagram (@jordaineenriquez).
Until next time,
Jordaine Enriquez, SPT + fear-o turned HERO