Student 411 with Ricky Baker

Student 411 is a feature you may have seen regularly in your campus newsletter. We thought it would be fun to pick one from time to time to include in our national newsletter. Ricky Baker is the first student to feature. Ricky joined the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at our Albuquerque campus in October 2011. He has been a massage therapist for 8 years. What are your career ambitions? “To make a comfortable living doing something I enjoy, preferably helping people.” What made you choose PTA? “It will help me achieve my career ambitions.  I enjoy helping people with massage, but it has taken a toll on my body. Working as a physical therapist assistant I will be able help people in ways I never could.” Is PTA related to Massage Therapy? “To begin with, massage is a modality used in PTA.  Also, any massage therapist worth their weight in salt will know many of the stretches, mobilizations, and such used and taught in the physical therapist assistant program.” Why did you pick Carrington College? “The first moment I walked in, everyone was friendly.  I met Ed Greene, the PTA program director the first day and was certain I would get the education I need to be successful in the field. All the teachers have been great and taught me so much.” Do you have any tips for new students?  “Keep your head up. It is hard going at times, but worth it when you get that first thank you from a patient in the clinic.” What inspires you to do your best? “Knowing the harder I work, the better I will be, and the more people I will be able to help.” What is your favorite quote? “Laissez les bon temps rouler” (Let the good times roll) A physical therapist assistant is a ‘hands-on’ career choice; they use non-invasive treatment techniques to promote healing and restore function. Techniques used include restorative exercise, range of motion and stretching activities, soft tissue mobilization, coordination training, aquatic therapy, aerobic conditioning…and many more.   For comprehensive consumer information, please visit carrington.edu/degrees/physical-therapist-assistant/   Program availability varies by location.