Capitol Hill Day 2023 - Student Reflection
Reflection: Student life revolves around the classroom and clinicals; other aspects of professional development are often set to the side while in school. Taking part in advocacy events for physical therapy is one way to develop professional skills in communication and collaboration. I recently attended Capitol Hill Day in Washington D.C. and took on the challenge of meeting and speaking with legislators as part of APTA’s advocacy efforts at the national level. Educating senators and representatives about the physical therapy profession is an important responsibility we can all share in. When I arrived on Capitol Hill, I did not feel like an expert on the issues facing physical therapy, but other professionals from across the country were there to mentor and guide me. During each visit to a legislator’s office, I took part more and more in the conversation. I learned the importance of building relationships with law makers and the role I can play in providing education about our role as physical therapists in the lives of patients. I found that advocacy is a collaboration between law makers and the profession, each gaining from the work done by both. I was also struck by the sense of community that exists between those who come back year after year to promote the profession of physical therapy. I hope to continue to take part in national advocacy as I graduate this coming December and begin my professional career as a physical therapist.
Chris Chisler, SPT |