Student Advising Program

Students sitting across from an advisor in an office

GW’s Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) program has experienced faculty, both full-time and part-time, who are committed to enabling each student to succeed in the program.

Current students also serve as mentors to incoming students by orientating students to the University, program, and community.

Faculty Advisor  

The GW DPT program assigns a first year student with a faculty member who can offer professional and academic guidance. The faculty advisor ultimately will encourage and challenge students throughout their tenure in the program to develop a professional identity as a physical therapist.

Students are also encouraged to develop relationships with other faculty members. For example, students who are interested in a faculty member’s area of expertise or research can also develop an advisor relationship.

Student Advising Program

DPT students and faculty advisors first become acquainted at the new DPT student orientation. This partnership is expected to last for the duration of the student’s enrollment in the program.

Within the first month of classes, each student is expected to make an appointment to meet his/her faculty advisor. It is the responsibility of the student to meet with his/her advisor at least once per semester in the first year, and it is strongly recommended that students meet with their advisors at least once per semester thereafter. Students are encouraged to meet with their advisors before a concern or problem escalates.

Peer Advisors

Second year students enrolled in the GW DPT program guide first year students through the ‘buddy system.’ Each first year student is assigned to a second-year student before they arrive on campus. First year students can ask their newly assigned peer questions about the curriculum, textbooks, and student activities. Peers encourage new students to participate in student-sponsored events such as volunteer opportunities, community events, and social events.  Various activities enable new students to engage their peers, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of community.