Perfect Balance

When Selena Washington (B.S. ’04, D.P.T. ’06) arrived at New York Tech as a transfer student, she quickly immersed herself in campus life. Her involvement in multiple activities, including sports, prepared her to multitask and work as a team player, skills that have served her well in her role as the director of physical therapy at Physical Therapy of Harlem. “I supervise 10 employees, and I am in charge of scheduling, team building staff activities, overseeing day-to-day operations, and treating and evaluating patients,” she says.

“I always knew I wanted to do something that would allow me to assist others, and I also have a passion for anatomy and therapeutic exercise,” she says. According to Washington, New York Tech was the perfect setting for her to pursue her degree. Not only was she able to stay near her close-knit family, but the program prepared her for challenges and inspired excellence. “I feel like I was well trained for a beginner staff position after graduating from New York Tech’s PT program,” she says. “New York Tech was helpful with preparation for the federal board examination and prepared me to focus on working with a team approach. More heads are better than one. I quickly developed this concept while studying in the grad program.”

As an undergraduate studying life sciences, she learned how to balance schoolwork with extracurricular activities. “There was one occasion I performed less than satisfactorily on an exam after coming back from an away track and field competition. Professor Josefa Cubina called me out on it,” she remembers. “She was my undergrad professor and shetold me she didn’t want to see anything like it again.” Washington remembers the incident as a moment that gave her confidence and drive. “She pushed me and told me I could accomplish anything I put my mind to. I appreciated her passion for me to excel.”

While achievement was very important to her, Washington suggests that students also prioritize themselves when in school. “Focus, persevere, and take every step a day at a time, but also make time for self-care,” she says. “Surround yourself with individuals who will build you up, inspire, and encourage.”