Physical Therapy Organization, The University of Texas at Austin
​PTO
ABOUT US
The Physical Therapy Organization (PTO) at the University of Texas at Austin is an academic, service, and social organization designed for undergraduate students who are either applying to physical therapy (PT) graduate school or seeking more information about PT as a possible career field. As our two primary objectives, this organization provides both (1) an outlet for students exploring PT as a career choice and (2) a support network for students applying to PT school.

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PT GRADUATE SCHOOL
Throughout the academic year, we host a speaker series in which representatives from the various Texas PT schools come and discuss their PT program, highlighting what makes their program stand out from the rest. Representatives address a myriad of topics including but not limited to the following:
1. Application process
2. Statistics and data of accepted applicants
3. Background of faculty and staff
4. Benefits, opportunities, and advantages offered
5. Current events relevant to the healthcare field

As a PTO member, you are kept up-to-date on any changes that are made by PT programs, debuts of new Texas PT schools, and/or shadowing and job opportunities that become available in PT clinics within the Austin area.
Peer counseling amongst members is also available with upperclassmen mentoring lowerclassmen, offering helpful recommendations, advice, and encouragement. Conversations could address various topics such as prerequisites for admission, application procedures, and observation experience.
PTO also provides a forum located on LinkedIn to elicit group discussions amongst PTO members concerning prerequisite coursework, the application process, volunteer opportunities, and helpful links to share with other members.
VOLUNTEER SERVICE & OBSERVATION EXPERIENCE
PTO provides numerous opportunities for its members to volunteer and give back to the community through numerous charity events such as the Autism Project and racing events . In addition, PTO informs its members of various opportunities for shadowing physical therapists within Austin.
SOCIAL EVENTS
PTO hosts various social events ranging anywhere from co-ed intramural sports and race teams to group trips to PT programs and social outings. The IM sports we have participated in in the past include:
1. Flag Football
2. Soccer
3. Volleyball
Race events we have been involved with in the past include the following:
1. Race for the Cure
2. Longhorn Run
3. Livestrong
Social outings vary widely from casual dinners and dance outings to rock climbing and bowling. Feel free to contact our social chair with any ideas and suggestions concerning other social opportunities and events!