Ali S.

About Ali S.

I’m a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) student at the University of St. Augustine in Dallas, originally from the Metro Detroit area. I’m set to graduate in 2027 with a mission to help others reclaim strength, independence, and quality of life. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and am a Certified Personal Trainer (NASM-CPT).My passion for physical therapy has always been grounded in a desire to help people heal and grow, as it brings fulfillment in my heart! Working as a fitness therapist at A2 Fitness Professionals — where I support individuals with traumatic brain injuries and other disabilities — revealed a deeper calling within me. It’s shown me the real impact that care, movement, and human connection can have when someone feels lost in their recovery.I’ve sometimes wondered if simply having the heart to help is enough — but every small breakthrough and every bit of progress reminds me that it is. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being consistent, compassionate, and present for those who need you most.Professionally, I’ve worked as a fitness therapist, pharmacy technician, and physical therapy technician, while also gaining valuable experience in customer service and food service roles. I even taught myself how to run an e-commerce storefront, managing product design, marketing, and sales. Though I stepped away from that business to focus on school, it laid the foundation for my long-term goal: to blend my clinical knowledge with entrepreneurial skills and create a business centered around physical therapy and fitness.Outside of school and work, I’m deeply passionate about boxing, strength training, and overall wellness. As an amateur boxer (USA Boxing), I’ve learned discipline, mental toughness, and how to push past limits — qualities that shape how I approach both fitness and healthcare. I believe that a career in healthcare is about service — helping others rebuild and become stronger than they ever thought possible.

Experience

1. Pharmacy Technician

   Meijer

   Oct 2022 — Present · Canton, MI, US

   As a Pharmacy Technician, I assist in all aspects of pharmaceutical operations, including insurance billing, medication preparation, and patient support. My responsibilities include verifying and processing insurance claims, counting and organizing medications, stocking inventory, and helping dispense prescriptions accurately and efficiently. I work closely with pharmacists and my team to ensure smooth workflow and rely on strong collaboration and communication to succeed in a fast-paced environment. I also support patients by offering guidance on pricing, insurance coverage, and general pharmaceutical information. Additional duties include cashiering, restocking, and assisting with immunizations, health screenings, and vaccination coordination. I bring strong interpersonal skills and foundational pharmaceutical knowledge to ensure quality service and care.

Education

• Schoolcraft College

  Associate of Science - AS

  2019 — 2022

• University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

  Doctor of Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy/Therapist

  2025 — 2027

• Wayne State University

  Bachelor of Science - BS, Kinesiology and Exercise Science

  2022 — 2024