BGSU pre-professional program leads recent graduate to next step

With the help of advisors and mentors, Meadow Glass '25 made the change from pre-medicine to pre-physical therapy

By Branden Ferguson

Recent alumna Meadow Glass '25 enrolled at Bowling Green State University as a pre-medicine student, excited for the hands-on learning that would prepare her for her future career.

While in the pre-professional program, Glass, of Bad Axe, Michigan, participated in experiential learning that helped her build a strong academic record, worked with advisors to develop her resume and received assistance to prepare for testing and navigate the application process for professional schools.

"The pre-professional program has always pointed me in the direction of great resources and encouraged me to ask questions and gain experiences," said Glass. "With the help of my mentors and advisors, I confirmed my passion for healthcare and was encouraged to follow my heart and received assistance transitioning into the pre-physical therapy program."

Glass worked with advisors and made the switch to exercise science, putting her on the fast track to the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at BGSU. Through a combination of classroom learning and experiential opportunities, the exercise science program provides students with an ideal path to an advanced degree in physical therapy.

The nationally-accredited exercise science program at BGSU prepares students for careers in rehabilitation, fitness, sports training and other health and wellness-related careers in corporate, private and public settings.

With faculty members who are renowned experts in their fields, students are able to conduct undergraduate research in biomechanics, clinical exercise physiology, concussion treatment and recovery, exercise and aging and more. In the classroom, students work in the state-of-the-art exercise physiology lab, utilize one of the premier biomechanics labs in the country, and have the chance to work with Division I collegiate athletes.

"I had the opportunity to work with the BGSU football team's athletic training staff and took part in physical therapy clinics in the community," Glass said. "Working with Division I athletes and certified trainers, I gained experience, made connections and confirmed that I had made the correct career choice."

In addition to learning about human anatomy, exercise physiology and sports injury prevention, Glass said she also obtained real-world skills that she can use in her career and daily life.

"I learned skills that have real-world applications for gym goers and day-to-day people," Glass said. "I learned CPR, first-aid, how to test and treat ailments and how to better my rapport with clients."

One-third of BGSU graduate students returned or stayed at the University after previously earning a degree or certificate from BGSU. With a welcoming and supportive community and endless opportunities provided by BGSU, Glass has decided to remain at BGSU and will begin the DPT program in the fall.

"I fell in love with the small-town, big-city feel of campus," Glass said. "I am excited to return to campus and feel well prepared for the coursework and rigor of the program."  

As Ohio's first and only hybrid (online and in-person) DPT program, BGSU graduate students can earn their doctorate degree in just seven semesters. Upon completing the program, Glass plans to pursue a career as a pediatric physical therapist.