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Support Clara in Journey into Scientific Research
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$975 raised of
17 donations
Hello everyone,
My name is Clara Schattschneider, and I’m honored to share that I’ve been accepted into a competitive undergraduate research program called TIDES with McLennan Community College, established in partnership with Texas Tech University – Waco. I’m reaching out for support to help fund the travel and program costs so I can take part in this incredible opportunity that will directly strengthen my journey toward physical therapy school.
What Is TIDES?
TIDES is a research program created to give undergraduate and community college transfer students hands-on access to authentic scientific research — an opportunity many students never receive. Through this program, I will:
- Conduct scientific literature reviews
- Collaborate with a research team
- Design and carry out an original research project
- Collect field data at the Roatán Institute for Marine Sciences in Roatán, Honduras
- Analyze results using real scientific methods
- Present my findings to the scientific and academic community
This program was specifically developed to help level the playing field for under-served and transfer students who are applying to competitive academic and professional programs — including physical therapy.
Why This Matters for My Physical Therapy Career
My long-term goal is to become a physical therapist, helping people regain mobility, strength, and independence. Research experience is becoming increasingly important in physical therapy because modern PT relies heavily on evidence-based practice. This program directly supports my goals by helping me:
- Build strong analytical and scientific reasoning skills essential for PT school
- Learn how to interpret research and understand data — core skills used in patient evaluation
- Develop experience with real-world research methods that will prepare me for graduate-level coursework
- Strengthen my PT school application with competitive, hands-on scientific experience
- Gain confidence in communicating scientific information, a skill I will use when educating future patients
By participating in TIDES, I’m not just learning science — I’m building the foundation I need to be an effective, well-prepared, and well-rounded future physical therapist.
Why I Need Your Support
Although I’ve earned my place in the program, the costs associated with travel, lodging, and research materials are not fully covered. Your contribution will help fund:
- Program fees
- Travel to Roatán, Honduras
- Housing and food during the research period
- Research supplies and equipment
- Costs related to presenting my research at conferences
Every donation, no matter the amount, brings me closer to gaining this life-changing experience and advancing toward my goal of becoming a physical therapist.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story and support my educational journey. This opportunity means the world to me, and with your help, I can take a major step toward my future in physical therapy. Even if you can’t donate, sharing this page helps more than you know.
Thank you for believing in me.
— Clara Schattschneider