From the President of the Class of 2006….
By:  Kama Smith, SPT
President, DPT Class of 2006

We have been called an “interactive” class, and have already begun to compile a plethora of memories and experiences both within and outside of the classroom.  In addition to all of our class work, we  have gained valuable hands-on experience outside of the classroom through various volunteer experiences, such as giving massages at the MS Society's Bike to the Bay race and other events.  The Multiple Sclerosis clinic held monthly at the UD clinic has captured many of my classmates' interest. 
 
Our lives outside of the classroom were further enriched this fall when a small group of us attended the APTA's National Student Conclave in Milwaukee, WI.  At this conference we met hundreds of other students.  Our class also planned Faculty Appreciation Week to thank  the professors and staff for everything they do for us.  The outstanding door decorations (many of which are still up) and extremely delicious potluck lunch truly expressed our gratitude. 
 
On top of a full Spring class schedule, many of us will be involved in integrated geriatric or orthopedic clinical experiences.  Hopefully, our early hands-on practice will provide us with the confidence that we will need to become enthusiastic clinicians.  This summer students will travel all over the country for Acute affiliations: South Carolina and Texas to Colorado and Arizona and the northeast coast.  Each of us anticipates learning a great deal, and we look forward to putting the knowledge we have gained this year to use. 

The DPT1’s not only participate in PT-related community service projects such as Newark Community Day and raising awareness of the Medicare direct access and therapy cap bills at local physical therapy clinics, but are also involved in UD-related activities.  Our class sent a co-ed flag football team to a regional competition at the University of Maryland. Co-ed intramural volleyball gives us an outlet for frustrations and provides us with some competition and fun outside of the classroom.  With all the activities we are involved in, our eagerness to learn and grow is evident, and we are anticipating an interesting 2 more years of learning and fun….