The CU Physical Therapy Alumni Association Board of Directors is fortunate to have two student representatives from each class. Many former student representatives have chosen remain on the board after graduation. Today we are spotlighting Class of 2024 Student Representative Jarod Maxson. 

What is your hometown?
My hometown is Wausau, Wisconsin. Located in central Wisconsin; population of about 40,000.

Where did you complete your undergraduate studies, and what did you study?
I went to the University of Wisconsin-Madison and graduated with a degree in the Kinesiology program for Exercise Movement Science.

What drew you to the physical therapy profession and the CU Physical Therapy Program?
The biggest reason I wanted to enter into Physical Therapy was my Uncle. He was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's at the age of 49. From there, I was able to help him to appointments for OT and PT alike. The ability to allow people, even with a debilitating disease like AD, an opportunity to increase their quality of life really impacted me early on in Undergrad. CUPT was incredibly inclusive and engaging on this topic and had the same set of morals when it comes to how we treat people, more than just a disease.

What made you interested in joining the CU Physical Therapy Alumni Association?
I wanted to join the Alumni Association to have a greater sense of understanding from those that came from this program before me. Being able to incorporate the future professionals as well as seasoned PTs is a great opportunity to build my skillset of networking.

What do you enjoy most about serving on the CU PTAA?
Similarly, I love being able to hear what the current Alumni Board are up to, and what they are engaging in. I believe that a strong foundation of alumni give us an easier transition to being clinicians.

What has surprised you most about physical therapy school?
Not a large surprise but in PT school, communication and how to interview patients is utterly pertinent. Without a good ability to build rapport from the beginning, it can set up a clinical disadvantage. This takes skill building to be proficient!

What are your professional goals after you complete physical therapy school?
My professional goals are to eventually work alongside athletes in a professional capacity. I am an avid sports fan and would love to dive deeper into that subset. Golf, Soccer, Football, Baseball, Basketball. You name it!