By Fatima Magana '22

ALLIANCE - Doctor of Physical Therapy student Daniel “Danny” Martin D’25 chose to enter the medical field as a physical therapist, furthering his education at the University of Mount Union. Envisioning himself as a caring healthcare provider, he hopes to help his patients recover offering the same experience he did when seeking care from his physical therapist.

“My first rotation was at Drayer Physical Therapy in Austintown,” said Martin. “[I saw patients with] back pain to ACL repairs, joint replacements, plantar fasciitis, [and] concussions.”

Martin explains that he enjoys the hands-on experiences he has gained through the program. He has been able to meet experts in the field and gain insight from faculty within the program. Martin has explored facilities all over Ohio and is now gaining practice at Summa Hospital in Barberton, and will travel to Toledo in the spring to begin his final rotation before graduating.

Martin D'25 (right) with a classmate in a lab

“I’d love to work in an orthopedic or sports rehabilitation facility upon graduating, working with teenagers because my high ankle sprain happened when I was 12 which is when I fell in love with the profession,” said Martin. "Through the physical therapists that helped me recover, I learned that I wanted to be just like them."

Martin explains that along with gaining hands-on skills, the physical therapy program at Mount Union also values students’ personal experience, encouraging them to build self-discipline and a strong drive to help them achieve their goals.

Martin’s experience reflects that of every student at Mount Union—appreciated and welcomed as part of the Purple Raider family. Learn how you can achieve your goal of becoming a physical therapist in our Doctor of Physical Therapy program.