"Showing up and Showing out": Experiences of Racially Minoritized Physical Therapist Students

The increase in the diversity of students in physical therapist education programs (PTEPs) necessitates an examination of the education experiences of racially minoritized physical therapist students. The purpose of this paper is to describe the education experiences of racially minoritized physical therapist (PT) students.

Existing literature suggests that racism and racial microaggression are part of the racially minoritized student experience, therefore, making the racially minoritized student experience unique. In addition, more recent studies suggest that racially minoritized PT students experience higher rates of faculty and peer mistreatment based on racial identity. Existing studies also reflect how racially minoritized PT students possess a desire to be change agents within their profession.

A total of 41 participants were recruited from PTEPs through social media sites and national student organizations for Black, Asian, and Latinx students enrolled in PTEPs. Nineteen of those participants met the study's participation requirements.

Three interviews were conducted for each participant. Their responses were combined with a demographic survey received prior to the first interview. Interviews were then transcribed and coded with deductive and inductive processes.

The findings of this study are summarized into the following themes: cultural awareness and representation, racism and racial microaggression, relationships with faculty, and career goals and motivations. These themes describe how race and ethnicity influence the physical therapist student experience as they interact with peers and faculty.

This study provides an understanding of how race and ethnicity can influence racially minoritized student PT experiences. Findings also recognize that interactions and relationships with faculty are important to PT students. The study also supports ongoing efforts to improve the demographic profile of faculty within physical therapist education in ethnic diversity and racial identity.