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On Sunday, September 28th, Columbia University Program in Physical Therapy hosted the Downstate Regional Student Conclave. Nearly 250 representatives from 22 schools attended the conclave, which exceeded Columbia’s goal of hosting the largest regional student conclave to date. According to guest speaker and APTA Vice President of Practice & Education, Ken Harwood, attendance even exceeded totals at recent APTA National Student Conclaves.
“This was a success by every measure. We had a spectacular turn-out, the largest I have ever experienced at a regional conclave.” Columbia DPT graduate Mahlon Stewart raved, “The speakers addressed local and national issues, and we were treated to a glimpse of cutting edge interventions that are enriching the landscape of physical therapy treatment. Most importantly, everyone had a great time.”
After a chaotic period of registration and breakfast, the day’s presentations began with a discussion of “What’s Hot” in PT, by NYPTA President Jim Dunleavy, PT, MS. Students learned the latest news on issues such as Direct Access and the Medicare Physicians’ Fee Schedule.
The morning session continued with two presentations regarding unique and rewarding opportunities available to physical therapists. First, Debra Ann Tupe, MPH, MS, OTR/L discussed international opportunities, providing a systematic approach for identifying potential locations and evaluating whether each is a good fit for a student PT’s individual skill set and interests. Next, Robin Myers, PT, NCS, and Laura Brixius, PT, MPT, NCS discussed PT Residency programs. This presentation was particularly interesting, as Ms. Myers presented information from the point of view of a residency program administrator, and Ms. Brixius, from the perspective of a student who recently completed the residency. The residency presentation was further enhanced by the hard work of conclave co-chairperson, Marla Ranieri, who thoughtfully provided conclave attendees with a list of residency programs nationwide.
After lunch, Ken Harwood, PT, PhD, CIE provided a look into the future of PT practice and education. He prompted the audience for their opinions on direct access, reimbursement, and future directions for the APTA, introducing many of the debates currently being discussed by the APTA and legislators.
Bill Gallagher, PT, MSPT, CMT, CYT took the stage and got conclave attendees out of their chairs—literally—with a presentation on the utility of Tai Chi integrated with PT practice. Students were able to enjoy a few relaxing moments of meditation, followed by a Tai Chi session aimed at understanding the basics of how this martial art form can aid in balance and other outcomes with PT patients.
To end the afternoon session, Sue Ann Sisto, PT, MA, PhD, presented information on the latest in PT technology, including use of virtual reality and Nintendo Wii in PT practice. Students received insight into how computers and games are used to aid in recovery of neurological function and other limitations.
Throughout the day, a raffle was conducted which included dozens of textbooks donated by professors and publishers, PT equipment, and a collection of autographed books donated by author Oliver Sacks. The raffle was wildly popular, and proceeds were donated to the Spinal Muscular Atrophy Clinic at Columbia University Medical Center.
This year’s annual NYPTA Downstate Regional Student Conclave proved to be a tremendous success. Students traveled not only from downstate New York, but also from upstate schools and from New Jersey to spend the day together learning valuable information and discussing their futures as physical therapists. Whether it be through a residency program, by volunteering abroad, by incorporating eastern medicine or new technology into practice, or by getting involved in the NYPTA and APTA, those who attended the conclave are certain to leave a lasting impression upon patients and the physical therapy community.
posted November 18, 2008
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Students performing Tai Chi.
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