Tae Adams

Tae Adams is transfer physical therapy doctoral student from Aurora, IL

Hometown: Aurora, IL

Year: Expected graduation: 2025

Major: Physical therapy doctoral program

Transfer from: Aurora University

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
When I was growing up, by the age of 9 I knew I wanted to be in the medical field. When I turned 17, I decided I wanted to pursue a career as a physical therapist. I’m currently pursuing a doctorate in physical therapy (D.P.T.).

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is physical therapy. I chose physical therapy because I was always fascinated by how the body works and moves. I also want to change lives and educate my community or future patients on anatomy and activities of daily living.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
One thing I found pleasantly surprising is how awesome and cool the professors are. The professors really care about their students’ education and success, and they don’t just look at you as a Z-ID number.

How have you conected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
NIU’s D.P.T. program is very strenuous and a lot of work. A couple of days before the exam, some classmates and I study the material, and we don’t leave until we understand the content. Study groups are really important because you get a different perspective on the material that could be beneficial.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you succeed? And how?
The College of Health and Human Sciences has really helped me excel. Especially the anatomy department.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
I’ve received a lot of support to get where I’m at today. I received support from my family, co-workers and the D.P.T. faculty.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
The thing I enjoy most about the Honors Program is that I’m recognized for my hard work.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
I have multiple professors that I really liked. I will name a few: Dr. Dawn Brown (D.P.T. faculty), MJ Blaschak (D.P.T. faculty), Dr. Sarah Greenhagen (D.P.T. faculty), and Dr. Olsen and Mary McGinn (BIOS 311).

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
I’ve benefited a lot by attending class every day. I learn new material every day, and I’m not playing the catch-up game because I don’t skip class.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus is Founders Library because it’s very quiet and peaceful, and I can concentrate on my work.

What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges?
Some advice I would give to students applying to college or a doctorate program is to get good grades, be confident, be optimistic, ask questions and be yourself.

Coming to college, what is something that you have had to learn to do differently?
Coming to college, I learned that I had to study more than usual. Especially in a doctorate program.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
To relax or recharge I sleep, play chess games, work out and play video games.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
I grew up in a single parent household since I was 3 years old, and I’m still living in a single parent household as we speak. I had to grow up faster than others. There were times I wanted to give up and quit but my pride wouldn’t let me, and that’s why I’m in a doctorate program right now. I never gave up. I always showed perseverance. I’m destined to reach my fullest potential in the near future, and I’m going to become the best physical therapist I can be.