E11 - Beyond the Classroom: The Journey of a Mary McMillan Scholar

Mikayla Grocki, Mary McMillan Scholarship Award winner, shares her journey from student athlete to award-winning physical therapist alongside her faculty mentor Dr. Rashelle Hoffman from Creighton University. Their conversation reveals how balancing academics with research and service opportunities can create exceptional physical therapy professionals while preventing burnout.• The Mary McMillan Scholarship Award honors the APTA's first president by recognizing six students nationally who demonstrate scholastic excellence, leadership, and significant contributions to the profession• Mikayla's background as a collegiate soccer player informed her understanding of movement, eventually leading to her passion for working with older adults• Research and service activities became outlets that fueled Mikayla's education rather than creating additional stress• Mikayla participated in all aspects of research projects from screening participants to manuscript preparation and conference presentations• Finding the right balance between academics and extracurricular activities is crucial for preventing burnout while still developing professionally• Leadership opportunities can be found in small settings and don't require organizing large events• APTA membership provides valuable networking, professional resources, and up-to-date information on regulatory changes• Presenting research at CSM allowed Mikayla to connect with professionals across specialties and geographic regions