After completing my master’s in education, I wanted to continue school, but I decided to go back to the athletic training side to get my doctorate. I was looking for a program that was convenient, had a great reputation, and challenged me to think about the athletic training profession in a different light. A.T. Still University’s Arizona School of Health Sciences’ Doctor of Athletic Training program did all of this and so much more.

I began the DAT program after a phone call with Dr. McLeod to learn more about the program and for her to learn more about me in January 2020. Over the last four years, I have gained knowledge, built relationships, and expanded my personal brand as an AT. Two of my favorite parts of ATSU’s DAT program were the Winter Institute and the Applied Research Project (ARP).

The Winter Institute was a place to learn and collaborate with fellow DAT students and faculty and get to really challenge our minds on some current topics surrounding the athletic training profession. It was a really nice change of pace to get to meet everyone in person, after working together online. It gave us a chance to really build relationships across the AT profession.

The ARP was my other favorite component of the DAT program. I was able to explore a passion of mine through building a project intended to start an advocacy movement in my region of California surrounding the implementation, employment, and support of BOC-Certificated ATs in the secondary school setting.

Without any hesitation, I would highly recommend the DAT program for any athletic trainer looking to expand, build, and challenge themselves as a professional. This was an amazing four years, and I can't thank the DAT faculty enough — especially Dr. McLeod and Dr. Valier for all of their constant support and encouragement throughout the program!