After successfully graduating from American Career College as the physical therapist assistant (PTA) program valedictorian, Madison M. achieved another impressive milestone – earning a perfect score on her licensure exam.
“Honestly, it’s a hard test, and sometimes there’s more than one right answer,” Madison said. “But, as I heard from an instructor at ACC, boards are testing if you’re safe, efficient, and effective. That’s what stuck in my head when I was answering questions.”
Passing the exam is a pivotal step toward receiving a physical therapist assistant license, and Madison is the first ACC-Orange County graduate to receive a 100 percent. Her advice to PTA students is to take a learn-as-you-go approach.
“I studied religiously, but I think the brunt of my studying was during the program,” she said. “Learn the material as it comes to you so that it’s just about refreshing and applying when the time comes to take the exam.”
Now working as a licensed physical therapist assistant, Madison is excited to have started a fulfilling career helping others on their journey to recovery and improved physical well-being.
“I feel like all my training and schooling has paid off,” she shared. “I get to see the difference on a patient’s face when they arrive in pain but leave with a smile. It’s affirming to hear that they’ve benefitted from my interventions.”
Madison credits her ability to empathize and connect with patients to her personal experience in physical therapy.
“I was diagnosed with degenerative disc disease in high school, and since then, I’ve had three back surgeries. I’ve been through a lot of Physical Therapy throughout the years and have experienced the fear and frustration as a patient on my own journey,” she said. “Having physically and emotionally been in a vulnerable position, I can empathize with patients and encourage them to take their own journey one day at a time."
Madison sees her journey extending beyond her current role as a PTA. Inspired by her positive experiences at ACC-OC, she aspires to return, but this time on the other side of the desk.
“I’m looking forward to growing as a clinician, learning more manual skills, and continuing my education so that I can come back as an adjunct professor,” she said. “My end goal is to teach future physical therapist assistants empathy and how to utilize their life experiences to help patients.”
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