Justina M. Snyder

This is a photo of Justina Snyder. Justina is wearing a blue Ithaca College clinic shirt and smiling at the camera.

I have always been fascinated by anatomy and the complexity of the human body. I knew this interest drew me towards the medical field, but it wasn’t until I shadowed in a physical therapy clinic near my hometown of Haddon Heights, NJ, did I realize this profession was for me. I aspire to motivate and uplift others in a hands-on career that allows me to build strong relationships with patients. I chose Ithaca College because it provided a rich blend of academia and opportunities for extracurriculars. After graduation, I am fortunate to further my learning at Ithaca College as I continue my pursuit of a doctor of physical therapy degree.

Taking advantage of experiential learning opportunities, such as working in the Occupational and Physical Therapy Clinic on campus, proved to be both valuable and memorable. It is where I combined knowledge I gained from my neuroscience and psychology minors with my developing physical therapy clinical skill set to help treat my first-ever patient. Seeing their drive and motivation to accomplish their goals inspired me so much. This opportunity provided me with a strong foundation for future clinical rotations as I strive to offer the best compassionate and patient-centered care that I can.

Academic Achievements and Personal Highlights

  • Summa Cum Laude
  • Dean’s List
  • Peggy R. Williams Award for Academic and Community Leadership
  • Emmett Boldt '60 Scholarship
  • Alpha Eta Honor Society
  • Oracle Honor Society
  • Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society
  • Teaching Assistant, Clinical Physiology
  • Research, Honors Independent Study, “Combined influence of adolescent stress and concussion on adolescent behavior and stress physiology”
  • Ithaca College Physical Therapy Student Association, President (2019-20), Vice President (2018-19), Class Representative (2016-18)