David Chessen Carries Springfield College Culture in His Dual Physical Therapy Career
By Damon Markiewicz
While in high school and beginning to think about his future in higher education, David Chessen ’13, DPT’15, had the opportunity to job-shadow a physical therapist, and it was a formative experience that inspired him to explore a career in physical therapy.
Following his newfound passion, Chessen enrolled in the Springfield College Physical Therapy program, first starting as an undergraduate, and continuing on with his personal goal of earning a graduate degree as well.
“I really liked how the Physical Therapy program offers an entry-level opportunity to go into the Doctor of Physical Therapy program after completing your undergraduate requirements,” explained Chessen. “The PT profession was and is continuing to grow and the demand for physical therapists marked a great time to get into the profession.”
Inspired by his parents’ success of running their own small business, Chessen also decided to not be satisfied with just his DPT degree, but he also wanted to strive for a degree in Master of Business Administration. This unique combination of clinical expertise and business savvy would allow Chessen to help bridge the gap between health care and management. With this strategically planned dual degree, Chessen is able to drive innovation, improve operational efficiency, and lead patient care that delivers exceptional patient outcomes.
“The goal at the time was to open my own PT clinic, and although that may still happen, I have used that knowledge and experience in other areas of my life both personally and professionally,” explained Chessen. “As for Springfield College, I’m very thankful my educational experience allowed me to pursue both the DPT and MBA at the same time,” explained Chessen.
Currently balancing his time as a practicing physical therapist and full-time assistant professor of Physical Therapy at Seton Hill University in Greensburg, Pa., Chessen continues to follow his love for the PT profession as he strives to explore further areas of research and study.
“The culture of Springfield College was really something that I bought into and carried that with me as I entered the PT profession,” explained Chessen. “It was the little things, like not taking shortcuts by walking on the grass, that are cultural aspects that over the long run, represent larger areas that make a difference to be successful.”
Striving for personal and professional growth has always been at the core of Chessen’s values. Whether it’s the pursuit of research, or spending time in the clinic treating patients, the variety of life that Chessen gets to enjoy draws him into being a professor, while also continuing to practice as a physical therapist. The multiple aspects of teaching, research, and clinical practice are a great blend because he enjoys them all, and they are all centered around a mission he learned on Alden Street.
“As for Springfield College, there is no better environment out there for people that are looking for collaboration and community,” explained Chessen. “The campus is filled with individuals who really stick together and support each other. You will earn a fantastic education and build connections with faculty and staff who truly are there to help students with whatever endeavors they choose to pursue.”
Arriving at Springfield College provided Chessen the foundation of creativity he needed as a wide-eyed student eager to explore every opportunity that was introduced to him. His educational experience at the College provided the prerequisites to grow as a physical therapist and educator.
“From my perspective, Springfield College graduates have both the education and knowledge to transform any area they go into,” explained Chessen. “More importantly, Springfield College, I believe, attracts very like-minded individuals in regard to work ethic, people-centered engagement, and a service-minded approach that is necessary to lead into the future.”
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