Faculty: Jennifer Furze, PT, DPT, PCS

Program: Department of Physical Therapy

What makes teaching in your chosen field so unique and rewarding?

Teaching in any field or profession is simply amazing when you have the opportunity to watch a person grow and transform right before your eyes. My favorite moments are when students are working with a patient and they finally see the point or concept you were trying to make and you can literally see a “light bulb” illuminate in their expression.   

How do you maintain a close connection and relationship with your students?

I share the lessons I have learned along my journey in life with my students and openly discuss the hardships and triumphs as they closely relate to working with people and in particular, people who are experiencing physical and emotional struggles. To be effective as a health care provider, your patients need to be able to relate to you and the same is true for teaching, students need to be able to relate to you.

What makes Creighton University special? Why is it the best choice for students to pursue a degree in your particular program?

The opportunities for a student to learn and grow on a professional, personal, and spiritual level are endless. A Creighton education helps the student to have a better understanding of treating the whole person while giving back to one’s community.

With so much change happening in the healthcare industry, what’s the most important thing for students to know as they pursue an advanced degree in your program?

If you are passionate about your calling in life, the possibility of change around you is inconsequential. The most important thing to know is that you really want to be a physical therapist. The need for health care providers and physical therapists in particular in our society is real and won’t likely change over time even though the health care system in which we work may change.

Describe the support system that is available to students at Creighton.

There are many levels of assistance available here at Creighton University. First of all, peers are always willing to help one another succeed in meeting their goals. Secondly, the school supports numerous student tutors who can assist students in improving academic performance. Additionally, academic success counselors are part of the staff here at Creighton and they are able to help students on a professional level determine what changes need to be made. Finally, faculty are always willing to help students succeed and advance their skill set.