Running Into a Rewarding Career

14 April 2026

Alumni Spotlight

Dealing with injuries from years as a competitive track athlete sparked an interest in physical therapy for Carrie Simonson. After she earned a kinesiology degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Carrie took advantage of the affordability and flexibility of the hybrid-transfer PTA program to further her education at Clarkson College.

While a student at the College, Carrie developed valuable clinical skills, learned critical thinking, and grew professionally. With her goal of working in outpatient settings, she was able to gain experience in therapeutic exercise, manual techniques, and mobility training, learning how to apply those skills safely and effectively to meet individual patient goals. Carrie learned that the PTA role is constantly growing, with opportunities in outpatient orthopedics, sports rehabilitation, home health, hospitals, pediatrics, and even wellness and prevention programs.

“The physical therapy profession requires patience and genuine compassion for people of all personalities, diagnoses, and challenges,” Carrie explained. “It is good to stay curious and be ready to learn constantly as the field of physical therapy is always evolving.”

Having passed her board exams in January 2025, she now works full-time at Makovicka Physical Therapy, a Clarkson College Community partner. She finds that being part of a patient’s journey from start-to-finish is very rewarding. “Every day, I get to help people regain independence, whether that means walking again, returning to work, or simply being able to pick up their grandchild without pain. It’s incredibly rewarding to see progress over time and know I played a role in their recovery.”

Growing up in Springfield, Nebraska, Carrie enjoyed sports and outdoor activities like hunting and fishing—things that she realizes were the inspiration for her career choice. She leads an active life and enjoys free time with her German shepherd, Kelce.

Carrie Simonson
Associate of Science in PTA, 2024