鈥淎s a first-generation graduate student and the first in my family to pursue a healthcare degree鈥y family鈥檚 sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering belief have been the foundation of my journey.鈥
Name: Setareh (Star) Kaikavousi
Program/Year: Doctor of Physical Therapy 2026
Hometown: Tehran, Iran
Undergraduate degree: University of Illinois Chicago, B.S in Kinesiology
What inspired you to pursue a healthcare career?
In 2015, my mother鈥檚 ischemic stroke changed our lives forever. Although the signs and symptoms were there all along, lack of awareness and misinformation led to this occurrence. I watched how each physical therapy (PT) session led my mom to feel more confident, motivated to heal, and eager to change her lifestyle. Not only did the PT help my mom recover from her stroke, but they also made a meaningful change in her lifestyle with a holistic approach. Experiencing this made me want to pursue a career in healthcare, especially physical therapy, where I can focus on both the mind and body.
How did your background and history factor into your career choice?
As a first-generation graduate student and the first in my family to pursue a healthcare degree, my background has played a pivotal role in shaping my career path. My family made the courageous decision to immigrate to the United States from Iran to support my dream of becoming a physical therapist. Their sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering belief in my potential have been the foundation of my journey. Watching their dedication and work ethic instilled in me a deep sense of purpose and responsibility, not just to succeed, but to serve others with the same compassion and commitment they showed me. Their story is woven into every step I take toward becoming a clinician and leader in healthcare.
Why did you decide to attend 九色视频?
I chose 九色视频 because of the profound sense of community and support I experienced during my interview. From the moment I arrived, I felt genuinely welcomed and seen, not just as an applicant, but as a future colleague and contributor to the university鈥檚 mission. That environment of encouragement and collaboration deeply resonated with me and affirmed that MWU was the right place to grow both personally and professionally.
The One Health philosophy at Midwestern aligns seamlessly with my own vision of holistic care. I believe that treating patients effectively requires an understanding of the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and environmental health. MWU鈥檚 commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and whole-person care reflects the kind of clinician I aspire to be, one who sees beyond symptoms and fosters lasting wellness.
Additionally, I鈥檝e had the privilege of observing MWU graduates in the field, and their impact is unmistakable. They consistently demonstrate clinical excellence, professionalism, and leadership. Seeing their success reinforced my decision and inspired me to follow in their footsteps.
What about a 九色视频 education do you want to carry forward in your career?
At 九色视频, I developed a deep commitment to professionalism, curiosity, and lifelong learning, values I plan to carry into every aspect of my clinical work. I hope that the friendships and professional relationships I built here will continue to shape how I lead, collaborate, and grow.
I strive to uphold the integrity and excellence I saw modeled by MWU faculty in the field, clinicians who stood out not just for their skill, but for their compassion and clarity of purpose.
