‘I can’t wait to start treating my own patients’

By Ryan Clark
CHS Communications Director

Going back to school was not really part of the plan for Ben Kendrick.

“Physical Therapy wasn’t my first plan for a career,” said the 27-year-old Danville native. “Deciding to go back to graduate school while my wife was beginning her career required sacrifices on both of our parts. I am proud of the decision that I made and all the hard work I’ve put in over the last three years to get to this point.”

The point he’s referring to is the graduation ceremony for the Doctor of Physical Therapy Class of 2023, held at 10 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 26, at the Gatton Student Center’s Grand Ballroom.

“As the state’s flagship university and one of the best Physical Therapy programs in the region, UK was a no brainer for me,” Kendrick said. “I love this school, I love the city of Lexington. One thing about UK that stood out to me was the proximity of the rest of the College of Health Sciences as well as the Medical School. This results in us having increased access to experts in different fields as well as more resources than a stand-alone PT program has.”

But why PT in the first place?

“Physical Therapy bridges the gap between movement and medicine,” he said. “I love everything that we as PTs stand for and the role we play in today’s healthcare model, specifically as champions of primary prevention for health and wellness. PT aligns with my personal interests and values. I chose PT so that I could help other people find or regain a love and appreciation for exercise.”

Kendrick is not alone. Fifty-eight of his peers will join him in the ceremony.

“The faculty and staff are all so wonderful,” said Allie Hull, a 26-year-old Richmond native, who will also graduate on Saturday. “They are so invested in the students and have been so helpful any time I needed them. They have done so much to build my confidence throughout school and moving forward into the beginner of my career.

“I remember feeling like some days would never end,” she continued, “but, looking back on it now, it’s so hard to believe how quickly it’s flown by. I’m so proud of myself and all my classmates on this huge achievement. I can’t wait to get out there and start treating my own patients.”

Hull said she loves the idea of helping others to help themselves.

“As a physical therapist, you spend more time with your patients than most other healthcare providers,” she said. “I love getting to build relationships with my patients. Witnessing their journey through rehabilitation and empowering them achieve their goals is the most rewarding thing.”

Saturday, all of the sacrifices the students made will be worth it, as they take their next steps toward their professional careers.  

“It’s surreal,” Kendrick said. “At times, it feels like I started PT school just yesterday. Other times, it feels like it has lasted an eternity. I am ready for the next chapter of my life and what my career as a PT will hold but at the same time, I am trying to savor my time as a student and enjoy all the great relationships and memories that PT school has provided me.

“The faculty here at UK really is what sets this program apart and they had such a wonderful impact on my experience here as a student,” he continued. “Being a student in UK’s PT program specifically opens up so many opportunities, both as a student and for your professional development starting your career.”

To watch the ceremony visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MR4KD_KhE0E