Shawn Domm, Doctor of Physical Therapy

South College student Shawn Domm is sharing his story of how and why he chose South College and the Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

South College student Shawn Domm is currently learning at our Knoxville location. He is in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program and is on track to graduate June 2018. Today, he’s sharing his story of how and why he chose to follow this path.

What program are you in and why did you choose that program?
I am in the South Collge Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. I chose this program because of the impact physical therapy can have on people and from my own personal experience as a patient utilizing physical therapy services throughout my life.

Did you come to South College after working, raising a family, etc? Or did you come straight out of high school? Describe that journey.
My journey is a bit unique. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree. Not knowing fully what I wanted to do, I started a job as a financial planner. After six months, I realized that it wasn’t for me. So, I did something I had long considered, I joined the United States Army. I served in the Army for eight years on Active Duty and am currently still serving in the Army Reserve. I am a little older than most, and I have been happily married now for four years and we have a 2-year-old son. I left Active Duty because I was told they could not move my wife and I together (wife is active duty Air Force). I had to make a difficult decision but in my opinion, my family comes first and it allowed me to pursue a degree in the field physical therapy.

Why did you choose South College?
I chose South College because it came highly recommended from mentors of mine, the faculty is second to none, and the program fits my ever-changing lifestyle. I also chose it because of the flexibility. My wife is still serving in the United States Air Force on Active Duty, and this means that we move when they tell us to move

What is your favorite part of your studies at South College?
It may seem strange to some, but my favorite part is that I can go to class from anywhere. All I need is an internet connection, and I can log into the student portal and fulfill all the requirements of my courses.

What is your goal after you graduate?
My goal after I graduate is to pursue a residency with Evidence in Motion, and then after a few years of working in an outpatient setting, I hope I can continue to serve in the Veterans Administration or the military as a civilian physical therapist. Perhaps, even one day, I can open my own clinic with a few people I have met in the program.

Do you have any advice for future students who might be in your same position?
If you were in my postion, you would be going back to school after one career and working on another. This can be quite scary. The best advice I can give? Go for it! Think about it, but be confident that you are making the right choice with South College.

If you’re interested in learning more about the physical therapy program or about South College, contact us today!