As UAB PT celebrates its 60th anniversary, we want to spotlight a few of our many successful alumni and hear how the department has impacted their journeys.

With that said, we are pleased to introduce you to Antonio V. Pruitt, PT, DPT, MPA - a member of our first class of DPT graduates. Currently, Antonio is director or rehab services for Cobb Hospital in the WellStar Health System.

What is your favorite memory from your time at UAB PT?

The ten of us - UAB DPT Class 2005. We were the first class to graduate from the UAB PT program with a DPT.

What are you up to now and how has UAB PT potentially influenced that?

UAB PT has influenced my career by providing the foundation on what it takes to be a leader in health care with an emphasis on a Patient-Centered approach. As a health care executive with a DPT degree, I’m always looking for opportunities utilizing my platform to promote healthy lifestyles.

What is something you learned from UAB PT that you have taken into your career?

Problem-solving focus. Adaptability. Critical Thinking. UAB PT education prioritized situation analysis over memorizing standard solutions. Throughout my career I found this approach is essential for finding the best solution to a unique problem, rather than applying a generic/cookie cutter fix. Also, I have found that adaptability empowers me to tackle new challenges with confidence. Last, but not least, my training at UAB honed my ability to break down complex situations leading to better solutions and greater optimism.

If you could give one piece of advice to current PT students, what would you say?

The program will probably be one of the most challenging experiences you will face in your academic career. Be willing to put in the work, and if you need help ask for it. The faculty and staff all want you to succeed. They will not let you fail if you are willing to put in the effort it takes to navigate the program.

*Have someone you want featured? Please email Elena Potter at emp2@uab.edu.