Hi everyone,

I’ve been accepted into a top Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the University of Kansas, but I can’t get there alone.

As an international student, I’m not eligible for FAFSA or most U.S. financial aid or scholarships. Despite working, saving, and applying for loans, I still need help covering the remaining tuition and living expenses to make this dream possible.

My journey started at 18, when I left my home in Montreal, Canada to pursue a dream: competing as a Division I tennis player at the University of Missouri–Kansas City. Moving to a new country where I didn’t know anyone wasn’t easy, but those challenges shaped me into someone more resilient, independent, and determined.

Tennis gave me incredible opportunities, but more importantly, it led me to my passion for physical therapy.

That passion came from personal struggle. In high school, I dealt with severe chronic back pain that affected both my performance and confidence. A physical therapist helped me rebuild not just my body, but my belief in myself. That experience inspired me to one day do the same for others.

After that experience, I made the decision to stay in the U.S. once I graduated to pursue physical therapy. Unlike Canada and many other countries where it’s offered as a master’s degree, the U.S. requires a doctorate, providing more advanced training. I also knew I would have greater opportunities to work in sports medicine, which is where my passion lies from my experience as an athlete. Pursuing my education here meant access to stronger training, broader opportunities, and the chance to grow in the field I’m committed to.

Behind the scenes, my journey has required constant sacrifice. I was raised by Czech immigrant parents in a humble household, where every opportunity came with hard work. My family and I sacrificed so I could pursue tennis and earn a Division I scholarship. In college, I had to continuously fight for my spot on the team and maintain that scholarship.

While balancing Division I athletics and a full-time biology degree, I also worked part-time to cover additional expenses and fund my applications. I worked full time in the summer as tennis coach to fund expenses not covered by my scholarship. I also stayed in the U.S. for over a year without seeing my family to complete the clinical hours required for physical therapy school.

As an international student, and the first in my family to pursue a healthcare degree, I navigated this entire process largely on my own. I did everything in my power to become a competitive applicant, committing fully to my academics, athletics, leadership, and clinical experience.

And now, I’ve made it to the next step.

I’m ready to become a physical therapist and give back in the same way that changed my life, but I need your help to get there.

If you’re able to donate, even a small amount would mean so much. Every contribution brings me one step closer to starting this program this summer.

If you can’t donate, sharing this page can make a huge difference.

Thank you for being part of my journey and helping me turn this dream into reality.

With gratitude,

Catherine