DPT 6 Volunteers with Special Olympics Utah

“Reflecting on the experience, I thoroughly enjoyed working with the athletes and their families. They were so proud of their accomplishments and encouraged each other to improve their physical health and well-being. This experience has really made me excited to help improve not only the human experience through movement, but also each individual’s livelihood. We treat friends, not just patients. “ -Crystal Miskin

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“The Special Olympics was a great experience for me because it was the first PT-oriented event I attended after becoming a student of Physical Therapy. The catch was that I was expected to know what I was doing. I definitely felt both excited and terrified as I started working with the participants, but the kids there were all so nice and outgoing that my fear dissipated almost immediately. It was extremely rewarding to interact with some very cool people while also helping them in a manner that was connected to my future profession. I loved it.” -Bryan Langton

On June 12 and 13, members of the DPT 6 cohort volunteered at the Special Olympics Utah (SOUT) Summer Games. The students helped with the Healthy Athletes program, a study testing the health and fitness of Special Olympics Athletes. Students were trained in several stations which evaluated special fitness tests such as flexibility, strength, balance, cardio and health education. As part of Healthy Athletes program, the DPT 6 students monitored and recorded these tests. Many athletes learned how to improve their fitness levels and were given exercises to continue to strengthen their bodies and help them stay fit. As brand new DPT students, volunteering at the event was an eye-opening and fun experience.