Meet our Graduate Assistants
2024-2025 Graduate Assistants
The Physical Therapy Program awards 2 half-time graduate assistantships (GA) each year. Graduate assistants work directly with a faculty or staff member within the department performing a wide range of duties as assigned. Meet UD DPT's GA's below, along with details about their research interests and why they chose UD for grad school.
Emma Collett
- Education: D.P.T., University of Dayton, expected May 2025
B.S. in Health Sciences, University of Dayton, 2022 - Research Interests: Sports performance, Lower extremity biomechanics, Women's health and fitness
- Why UD: I chose UD DPT because I felt the curriculum offered a comprehensive blend of hands on learning experiences, clinical practice, and research opportunties. The program is comprised of experienced faculty members who I felt would provide valuable mentorship throughout and beyond PT school. Additionally, I felt that UD's committment to community aligns with my personal values. The opportunity to work as a GA has allowed me to gain experience in the world of research while also saving on tuition.
Elizabeth Schueler
- Education: D.P.T., University of Dayton, expected May 2025
B.S. in Health Science, University of Dayton, 2022 - Research Interests: Sports performance, biomechanics
- Why UD: I chose the UD DPT program because of its combination of experienced, research-driven faculty and a strong commitment to service and community. Its proximity to home made it a convenient choice, while the opportunity to work as a graduate assistant allowed me to save on tuition costs. What truly stands out for me is the program's focus on hands-on research, which has deepened my academic understanding and passion for advancing the field of physical therapy.
Lauren Boland
- Education: D.P.T., University of Dayton, expected May 2026
B.S. in Health and Wellness, Mount St. Joseph University, 2023 - Research Interests: Neurology, Tactile Athletes & Sports Performance, Concussion/TBI Management
- Why UD: I chose the UD DPT program because of its strong emphasis on integrating evidence-based practice with compassionate treatment to serve others, which resonates deeply with my personal and professional values. This is accompanied by a wide range of clinical opportunities that allow students to gain diverse, hands-on experience across mulitple settings. This extensive exposure is particularly important to me, as I aim to refine my expertise and apply evidence-based practices in real-world situations. UD DPT's commitment to integrate a service-oriented approach with education will help me make a tangible impact on the community growing as a well-rounded, empathetic physical therapist.
Austin Schlater
GA, School of Education and Health Sciences
- Education: D.P.T., University of Dayon, expected May 2026
B.S. in Organizational Leadership, Wright State University, 2022 - Research Interests: Sports Performance, Biomechanics, Exercise Physiology
- Why UD: I chose UD's DPT program for its proximity to home and the opportunity to save money by working as a Graduate Assistant. My GA position with the Health and Sports Science Department offers a unique chance to be involved in exercise and performance-based research while also teaching anatomy to nursing and pre-PT students. This allows me to experience both the research and educational aspects of strength and conditioning and healthcare, complementing my DPT coursework perfectly.
Danielle Updike
- Education: D.P.T., University of Dayton, expected May 2026
B.S. in Exercise Science, Walsh University, 2023 - Research Interests: Lower Extremity Biomechanics, Female Athlete Triad
- Why UD: I chose the University of Dayton's Doctor of Physical Therapy program because it was the first institution where I had the opportunity to engage with faculty members and connect with alumni. The welcoming and friendly nature of the individuals I encountered fostered a sense of comfort and belonging. This positive experience inspired me to explore physical therapy within such a supportive environment, reinforcing my decision to join UD!
Kyle Mitchell
- Education: D.P.T., University of Dayton, expected May 2027
B.S. in Allied Health, Cedarville University, 2024 - Research Interests: Sports performance, biomechanics, exercise physiology/strength and conditioning
- Why UD: I chose UD DPT because of the experienced faculty, the emphasis on hands-on education, and the various research and clinical education opportunities that the program provides. Between the three 12 week clinical rotations, the problem-based learning assignments, and the many research opportunities, this program provides quality experiences in hands-on situations that allow students to put their education into practice. The program also places a high importance on service, which is crucial to the profession. Overall, this program holistically prepares students to enter the workforce as competent physical therapists, while providing the opportunity to develop high quality research skills to further the profession.
Annie Robinson
- Education: D.P.T., University of Dayton, expected May 2027
B.S. in Health Sciences, University of Dayton, 2024 - Research Interests: Dance biomechanics, sports performance, and lower extremity injury prevention
- Why UD: I chose the University of Dayton's physical therapy program because of its dedication to serving the common good, which aligns with my desire to contribute positively to the community and address the diverse needs of others. The program's focus on developing holistic, well-rounded practitioners ensures that I will be prepared not just with technical expertise, but also with the empathy and understanding required to provide patient-centered care. Additionally, UD DPT's emphasis on research and innovation within the physical therapy field helps foster a deeper knowledge and passion for human movement.