Mandy Barnes, Doctor of Physical Therapy, Idaho State University, and Boise State Alum
Amanda “Mandy” Barnes is a Boise State University student alum who graduated in May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise Science emphasis, and a minor in Psychology. She was a full scholarship NCAA athlete on the swimming and diving team and received Magna Cum Laude honors during her time here. Mandy is currently attending Idaho State University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the Meridian campus. She expressed love and passion for movement, and she has longed to be a physical therapist since she was 12 years old. Going through PT school this last fall, she has stated that her education at Boise State University prepared her for her professional education.
Mandy describes herself as:
Dedicated, Caring, and Adventurous
What are your three most meaningful extracurriculars?
Swimming, Younglife, Dance Marathon
Do you think Boise State prepared you for physical therapy school?
YES! The kinesiology classes and my psychology minor prepared me for grad school very well.
What resources did you use at Boise State to prepare you for PT school?
My advisors, Internships in Physical Therapy, ISMI, Professors for references, Pre-Co (athletic study hall), The Job Fair
What do you wish you would have known before becoming a PT student?
Undergraduate classes WILL help you in graduate school!!
What would you tell yourself now knowing what you know now about applying to your professional school?
Get everything done earlier rather than later! Rely on your professors, make a connection with them, and ask for help when applying or looking into PT school. You will need a lot of volunteer hours and reference letters, so the earlier you can start the better!
What is it like being a student during a pandemic?
What do you think was the most important experience you had at Boise State?
Competing for the school in swimming while also getting my degree. Being able to do both well, was a huge part of my positive experience!
What are you most grateful for:
I’m grateful for the ability to still live in Boise while getting my degree from another Idaho University! I’m grateful for all the support I’ve had over the years from friends, family, and faculty to pursue my dream!
Would you like to talk with Mandy more about her experiences? If so, please contact Erin Colburn at erincolburn@boisestate.edu.