Q&A with Alumna Emma Stetler
After earning her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees from Baylor University, Emma Stetler, PT, DPT, CSCS, CPS, set her sights on research and working directly with elite athletes. In this Q&A, learn more about Emma’s journey after completing Baylor’s hybrid physical therapy education program.
“Seek out strong mentorship, learn from clinicians who will challenge you and refine your decision-making. I am where I am and who I am today because of mentorship.” —Emma Stetler, DPT ’23
What is your current role?
I am currently a fellow at the United States Olympic & Paralympic Training Center, where I work with athletes across a wide range of sports disciplines including wrestling, boxing, cycling, track and field and sled hockey. In this setting, I have a unique scope that includes traditional patient care, case management, sport coverage, and traveling internationally as the medical provider for teams like wrestling and BMX racing. It is an incredible honor to support the nation’s best athletes as they train and rehabilitate in pursuit of the one percent difference that differentiates a gold medal and no medal at all.
What are you currently doing to further your expertise as a physical therapist?
Through my fellowship, I participate in advanced didactics focused on Olympic and Paralympic sport and am consistently challenged outside of my comfort zone with complex cases, challenging timelines, and unique demands of elite sports. In addition, I continue to collaborate in an official capacity with Mayo Clinic, where I completed my sports residency, directing two research studies focused on the diagnosis and management of athletes with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS).
What advice would you give to someone interested in your type of work?
If you are interested in working in elite sports, be intentional about building your network and cultivating meaningful professional relationships. Seek out strong mentorship, learn from clinicians who will challenge you and refine your decision-making. I am where I am and who I am today because of mentorship. Additionally, pursue hands-on experience beyond the classroom: spend time in the training room, coach in the weight room, and observe on the sidelines. The more comfortable you are in these environments, the more ready you will be when an opportunity presents itself.
Do you have any future aspirations you would like to share?
My future goals include publishing two research studies in collaboration with the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee and Mayo Clinic, further advancing evidence-informed care for athletes. I also hope to become more involved in teaching and mentorship, investing in future sports physical therapists while continuing to grow as a clinician.
Inspired by Emma’s professional path? Learn how Baylor can prepare you for a career in Physical Therapy.
