Culture of Connection
Although the Baylor DPT program is hybrid in its design, our culture is one of connection and belonging. Students build strong relationships with faculty, staff, and classmates. Opportunities for forming and growing these connections are an intentional part of the program’s design.
Incoming students get to know each other before the program even begins through video introductions. Within these introductions, everyone can share about where they are from, their path to DPT school, and other unique information about themselves. Students also start collaborating with classmates in GroupMe to organize study groups and shared transportation and lodging for lab immersions. Additionally, a student-led Big/Little mentorship program pairs incoming students with senior students to help them navigate their DPT journey. The Big/Little program helps foster connection, making the adjustment to a hybrid program a little easier.
During program orientation, Baylor DPT students are assigned to faculty-led academic coaching teams. These groups serve as a student’s ‘first family’ within the program. Faculty coaches become an important point of contact for students. They offer 1:1 coaching sessions each trimester in order to provide a consistent resource for guidance and support throughout the educational journey.
When students come together for the first time in Waco, the first day is dedicated to team building. Through a series of activities and games—ranging from serious to hilarious—students, staff, and faculty will learn more about each other and start forming friendships that will last well beyond program completion.
“I was nervous (completely normal) and thinking of the worst-case scenario before I applied...“What if I have to do the program all by myself ?” In reality, it is the best-case scenario. I have best friends all over the country now and am in frequent contact with faculty, some of my biggest cheerleaders! I’ve never felt isolated once while in this program.” —Bethany Bradshaw (Class of 2025)
At onsite labs, Baylor DPT students are divided into 'pods' to create a small-group atmosphere during instruction time. Student pods work together to practice techniques and master hands-on skills. This structure also ensures each student plenty of 1:1 attention from faculty and adjunct faculty, allowing Baylor students to learn from and network with amazing physical therapists from all over the country.
From day one of the program through clinical education, graduation, and licensure, the Baylor DPT Student Support Team is dedicated to student success. This team of professional faculty and staff works to connect students with campus resources and offer guidance to support success both in and out of the classroom. The team takes time to understand students’ goals, needs, and aspirations in order to help match them to clinical placements where they can thrive. In the clinic, students will train under top-notch clinical instructors who will provide expert guidance and support, helping students grow into confident, capable professionals.
