March 3, 2020
Doing the DAT | Danielle P.
“The DAT has been transformational for me.”
In doing the DAT, I have been able to further my career by being appointed program director of my athletic training program. I have gained friends that understand what I do, achieved greater financial stability for my family, and discovered my inner confidence.
The DAT has been transformational for me. In my professional life, when I’m lobbying for the AT profession, having the degree has helped state legislators respect and trust me. As a teacher, the DAT has given me the evidence-based knowledge needed to serve as an expert educator. I was surprised to learn that I have a love for leadership, which has been instrumental in helping my efforts to serve the profession.
I chose ATSU’s DAT program because I knew I was learning from the best, but what I appreciate most about the program are the numerous quality mentors I have interacted with. My network has grown immensely to include quality athletic training clinicians, educators, and leaders—which has been greatly beneficial to both me and my students.
In addition to my mentors at ATSU, my biggest champion has been my husband—in fact, he was so supportive and interested that he eventually enrolled in the DAT program, too!