Meet Our Students

Current Students

  • Daniel Bedoya
  • Daniel Bedoya
  • Class of 2027
  • Why did you choose Rutgers DPT 4+3 Program?: I chose the Rutgers DPT 4+3 Program to be part of a competitive environment to push myself in order to become a knowledgeable physical therapist that can provide the best care to my own patients in the future.

What made you want to become a PT?
To me, being a physical therapist is not just a profession, it has a much deeper personal meaning. Being born to two full-time working parents meant it would be up to my grandmother, Victoria, to look after my sister and me. My grandmother was an immigrant from Colombia who taught me my first language, Spanish. As I grew older, the effects of her rheumatoid arthritis and various other health conditions took a slow yet increasingly tighter grip on her life. I watched her once capable body that could drive a car, go for walks, and feed herself regress into a delicate body that rarely sat comfortably in the chair in her living room. As I grew older, my understanding of her declining condition and quality of life grew as well. Although it was never asked of me, I knew I had to return the favor and take on the responsibility of taking care of Victoria as much as I could. There is nothing more in the world that I want than to carry out my promise to my grandmother and become a physical therapist and continue to treat those who are suffering.

Fun fact/interest/hobbies:
I placed 5th in the New Jersey State powerlifting championship.

  • How did you decide on your major?
    Growing up, I was always fascinated by exercise and how it can transform the human body. Watching the people around me face detrimental health challenges forced me to think about how exercise could help people facing similar or even worse setbacks. Exercise Science is the perfect major for me as it will be a strong foundation to help others overcome/manage their health issues.

    What is it about your chosen field (and the department) that appeals to you?
    Being a physical therapist is a field that requires critical thinking and an extensive/comprehensive base of knowledge on the intricacies of the human body which strongly appeals to me. Although this may seem like a grueling task, the department is dedicated to students’ success, making this goal an achievable reality.

    Do you have a favorite class/professor within your major?
    My favorite class was Introduction to Physical Therapy with Dr. Nagle. This was one of the very first classes I took at Rutgers and it helped me solidify my interest in becoming a Physical Therapist.

    What are your favorite academic experiences outside of your major?
    My favorite academic experience outside of my major was placing 3rd while representing Rutgers at the Mid-Atlantic Collegiate Powerlifting Championship. I also enjoy hiking, bodybuilding and spending time with loved ones.

    What are your other Rutgers activities?
    I am the Outreach Chair for the Rutgers Bodybuilding Club.

    What are your plans following graduation?
    Following my undergraduate graduation, I plan to attend Rutgers’ Doctor of Physical Therapy School, pass my board exams and become a practicing clinician. I hope to work in the neurological field of physical therapy. Volunteering at a brain trauma unit showed me how physical therapy in this setting can truly change lives.