Destinations in DPT: Charting Career Paths organized by the Career Development Office (CDO) was a significant milestone in my journey as an intern, providing invaluable experience in event management and professional development. I, Noor ul Ain Khalid, was entrusted with arranging this event specifically designed for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students. The event addressed key areas such as higher education after graduation, strategies to overcome career stagnation in physiotherapy, and diverse career pathways within NGOs.

 

The preparation for the event began two weeks in advance and required meticulous planning and coordination. Along with my fellow interns at CDO, I managed logistics, media coverage, booking the venue, and arranging decor and high tea. The guidance and support from Dr. Iram were instrumental in the success of the event. Her experience and advice were pivotal, ensuring that all aspects of the event were executed seamlessly.

 

The event was held on 21^st May 2024 from 10 am to 12:30 pm, and commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, setting a respectful and contemplative tone. My colleague Haider and I had the privilege of hosting the event. We began by expressing our gratitude to the CDO for their continuous support and then introduced the first speaker, Dr. Syed Ali Hussain.

 

 

Dr. Syed Ali Hussain's session focused on higher education opportunities after DPT. He began with the inspirational quote, "A truly educated never graduated," highlighting the importance of lifelong learning. He provided a detailed overview of national universities offering MS programs post-DPT, including credit hour requirements, fees, and program schedules. This information was crucial for students planning to balance work and further studies.

 

He emphasized the weekend programs offered by Riphah International University and Ibadat International University, and the Friday-Saturday programs by Foundation University. Dr. Ali also discussed the CORU exam in Ireland, which requires additional credit hours, and suggested exploring scholarships for pursuing a PhD abroad. His current enrolment in a university in Iran added a personal touch and practical insight into the discussion. The Q&A session, particularly the query about the NPTE exam, further enriched our understanding and provided clarity on critical aspects of advancing in the field.

 

 

 

Our second speaker, Dr. Samina Ghulam, a senior physiotherapist from AFIRM with 25 years of experience, addressed the topic of overcoming career stagnation in physiotherapy. Her objectives were to raise awareness, identify challenges, provide insights, promote professional development, inspire action, and facilitate discussion and collaboration.

 

She began her session by identifying the signs of career stagnation, a critical first step in addressing the issue. She then classified the factors contributing to career stagnation, discussing state issues, social issues, and personal and professional characteristics. This comprehensive analysis provided a clear framework for understanding the multifaceted nature of career stagnation.

 

In addition, Dr Samina outlined several strategies to overcome career stagnation, emphasizing the importance of diversifying skills, embracing new knowledge, fostering collaboration, and continually developing professional skills. She also provided practical advice on ways to achieve professional growth, including:

 

Deciding on long-term goals: Encouraging attendees to define clear, achievable long-term objectives.

Taking on new opportunities: Urging them to seek and embrace new challenges and opportunities in their careers.

Seeking out a mentor: Highlighting the value of mentorship in providing guidance and support.

Developing time management skills: Stressing the importance of effective time management for balancing various professional responsibilities.

Using what you are learning: Advocating for the practical application of newly acquired knowledge and skills.

 

Dr. Samina concluded her session with an inspiring quote: "Try to do something beyond what you have already mastered; you will never grow". This powerful message underscored the importance of continuous learning and stepping out of one’s comfort zone to achieve professional growth.

 

 

 

Mr. Taimoor Zulfiqar focused on career opportunities for DPT graduates within NGOs and charity-based organizations. He outlined various career paths for DPT professionals, emphasizing roles in medical centers (both personal initiatives and jobs), specialized counseling and services, services for forces and sports, and opportunities within NGOs.

He highlighted several key career paths for DPT graduates:

 

1. Advanced Certifications: Pursuing orthopedic, neurological, or pediatric physiotherapy certifications.
2. Professional Engagement: Engaging with organizations such as the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) or similar bodies.
3. Diverse Work Settings: Gaining experience in hospitals, outpatient clinics, sports facilities, and schools.
4. Mentorship: Seeking mentorship and investing in learning new techniques and technologies like dry needling, manual therapy, or telehealth services.
5. Work-Life Balance: Maintaining a healthy balance to prevent burnout and sustain enthusiasm for work.

 

Mr. Taimoor also elaborated on specific opportunities within Helping Hand for Relief and Development (HHRD) and similar organizations:

 

1. Community Rehabilitation Specialists: Focusing on community health initiatives.
2. Disaster Response and Humanitarian Aid: Participating in disaster relief efforts.
3. Health and Rehabilitation Program Management: Designing and managing rehabilitation programs within NGOs.
4. Therapy Services for Persons with Disabilities: Providing specialized rehabilitation services.
5. Research: Conducting research on the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions.

 

He concluded his presentation by sharing the vision and mission of Helping Hand for Relief and Development (HHRD):

 

HHRD is committed to serve humanity by integrating resources for people in need. We strive to provide immediate response in disasters and effective programs in places of suffering, for the pleasure of Allah SWT.

 

Mr. Zulfiqar ended with a motivational quote: "May your hard work and dedication lead you to success. Thank you."

 

 

Organizing and hosting this event was an enriching experience that enhanced my organizational skills, reinforced the importance of teamwork, and provided direct engagement with industry professionals. The positive feedback from attendees was gratifying and validated our efforts.

 

The event was a resounding success, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the CDO team and the guidance of Dr. Iram. It demonstrated the importance of thorough planning and execution. As an intern, this experience has significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth, and I look forward to organizing more such events in the future.

 

Noor Ul Ain Khalid (Career Development Intern)