In the words of Babette Sanders, APTA Secretary

Before NUPT...
My involvement with APTA started as a student. I was my class representative to the local APTA district (Greater New York District). I also represented students on some local APTA committees. This allowed me to meet some physical therapists who became my mentors throughout my professional career. Shortly after graduation, I was asked to run for a district officer position and for delegate to the APTA House of Delegates. I have been involved in APTA in some capacity since then.

On What Students Can Do...
APTA represents the professional interests of physical therapists, physical therapist assistants and students and advocates for our patients. By being a member of APTA, students have access to the latest information through journals and electronic media as well as helping to support the activities of the association. Sometimes, the activities we are involved with do not have immediate impact but the outcomes may be significant 5-10 years from now. Current students will be engaged in their careers at that time and will reap the benefits of the support they gave as students.

As a young professional, the first thing you can do is join the APTA! The next thing you can do is be involved. This might mean writing letters to your federal or state legislators voicing your opinions on pending legislation. It might also mean attending meetings, serving on committees or agreeing to run for office. At the national level, there is a large paid staff. At the chapter level, there may or may not be staff working for the APTA. A significant amount of work is done by volunteers. Be one and help APTA reach our goals.

On Job Perks...
There are so many things I find rewarding about my involvement! I have gained a tremendous amount personally and professionally through the opportunities I have had serving APTA.  Through the House of Delegates, being Illinois Chapter President, Chair of the Commission on Physical Therapy Education and my service on the APTA Board of Directors,  knowing I have been a part of the process that has helped PT advance as a profession in tremendously exciting.

The fun perks of the job are meeting and learning from wonderful colleagues all over the United States and in many cases traveling to their home states. I have seen some beautiful parts of the US, while helping to advance the profession.