Advice for Future Therapists: Motivation & Career Tips from Therapy Students

Behind every future therapy professional is a season of long nights, early mornings, practical exams, clinical rotations, and countless cups of coffee. Programs are rigorous by design, they stretch you academically, challenge you personally, and shape you professionally.

But within that intensity, there is also growth, friendship, purpose, and momentum.

We recently asked therapy students from programs across the country to share their advice for future therapists, including motivation and career tips from people currently walking the journey. The tips they’d give to incoming students, their younger selves, or even clinicians in the field who may just need a reminder of why they started. Their words were honest, uplifting, and worth a read.

If you’re entering a therapy program, currently in the thick of it, or reflecting on your journey in the profession, take a moment to skim some words you may resonate with.

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“Really immerse yourself in the program. It goes by so fast. I’m also really glad I found the group of friends that I did.”

• Erica TUN DPT Student

“Just say yes to any opportunity that’s given to you. You never know the people you’ll meet, and the networking opportunities, and overall experiences that come from just saying yes. It can open so many doors.”

• Shaye UNLV DPT Student

“Keep an open mind for what you want to do. Look into all your options.”

• Lauren Rutgers DPT Graduate

“It matters who you spend your time with in school. Being surrounded by the right people can be a huge help, and make or break the experience, so choose your friends wisely.”

• Anthony Rutgers DPT Graduate

Go into your PT journey with an open mind throughout your program. Absorb as much as you can, and remember that everything you’re going to see or learn is brand new. Get the most out of the experiences, because 3 years goes by really fast.”

• Jonathan Chapman DPT Student

“Three years will go by faster than you think, so enjoy every day you’re given. Whether it’s being at home, studying, or spending time with friends.”

• Trent Chapman DPT Student

“If you want to get into the world of sports therapy, start networking early – it’s never too early to start making connections.”

• Kiana Chapman DPT Student

“Create a good study group. Don’t try to do it by yourself. I have a very solid study group with my friends that I think helped us all excel.”

• Chris Utica DPT Student

“It does get hard, but just keep on going.”

• Gian Utica DPT Student

“Never be afraid to ask any questions, whether to fellow students, professors, etc., the more you learn, the better.”

• Nick Utica DPT Student

“Honestly, keep your head up. Keep pushing, because it’s all going to be worth it in the end.”

• Emma NYT DPT Student

“Keep your options open. Try everything at least once, you never know what you may like.”

• Gabby NYT DPT Student

“Just remember what you’re doing it for, and the reason why you’re here. Push through and fight for it, and eventually you’ll get it.”

• James NYT DPT Student

“Keep taking every opportunity that comes to you. Especially for first years, a lot of them think, ‘Oh, I have time! I’ll do it later.’ But, I feel like the sooner you start to take on those experiences, you’ll start to pave your path.”

• May Upstate DPT Student

“I would say my biggest advice is: comparison is the thief of joy. Try not to compare yourself to your peers or anyone else in your program. Just focus on yourself, we all have the same goal of getting our degree and then working with patients.”

• Tariq Upstate DPT Student

“I think you should always try to find ways to keep your passion in this field, and just always connect with the people in it as well.”

• Faye TWU Dallas DPT PhD Student

“There’s gonna be times where you’re going to feel like you don’t want to do it anymore, because it is a LOT of school, but it’s going to pay off, so you’ve just got to keep going. I don’t think I’ve been told this enough – that it’s going to all be worth it.”

• Rashali U of SC DPT PhD Student

Well, Rashali, and all the rest of you, it certainly is going to be worth it, as we are looking at and chatting with the next generation of therapy professionals. These students are caring, intelligent, passionate, and wise beyond their years in their approach to their careers.

To every current and future clinician reading this: stay curious, stay connected, and stay the course. The profession needs experts who lead with heart, humility, and a willingness to grow, and from what we’re seeing, the future is in very good hands.

 

💡 Interested in exploring travel therapy after graduation?

Ardor Aspire offers mentorship, resources, and personalized support designed specifically for therapy students and new grads navigating their next step. Explore open roles, and connect with our team to learn how you can build your career with confidence, wherever it takes you.

 

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