Deepthi Siruvuri, a graduate student studying exercise physiology at Wichita State University, is helping others while on her path to a degree.

Siruvuri worked this summer at OnPoint Physical Therapy as a physical therapist aid, where she assisted the physical therapist with patient treatment and home exercise prescription. 

During day-to-day operations, she helped patients perform their prescribed exercises and strengthening techniques, while learning new skills.

“Some things I’ve learned so far are neuro-developmental therapy and different Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) techniques,” says Siruvuri. “I learn new things with every patient.”

Being a WSU student has also given Siruvuri the assurance she needs while talking to patients.

“When I told them I am a student at WSU studying exercise physiology, they asked me a lot of questions regarding exercise and fitness,” says Siruvuri. “It boosted my confidence and helped me interact with them better.”

Siruvuri has previously earned her bachelor’s in physical therapy from Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences in her home country of India, and will take the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) to become a licensed physical therapist in the U.S.

Although the medical system in the U.S. is a bit different than what she’s used to in India, Siruvuri was able to get familiar with it at OnPoint.

Siruvuri plans on graduating in December and has big aspirations following commencement. She wants to earn her Ph.D. in exercise physiology and hopes to work for NASA as an exercise physiologist for astronauts.

“It would be a dream come true,” says Siruvuri.