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Student Programs

 

 

WELCOME TO Spine & Sport University

About Spine & Sport University

Spine & Sport University is our very own student development program focused on the success of the world’s future clinicians in the outpatient physical therapy setting. At S&S-U, we provide our students with a valuable experience that supports their path to becoming exceptional clinicians. Whether you’re looking for a placement for a clinical rotation or seeking an opportunity to kick-start your journey in PT by observing with one of our teams, we are here to guide you in achieving your professional goals.

Meet our Student Clinical Education Team

Starla Schwartz

Starla Schwartz
PT, DPT

Director of Clinical Services

Starla Schwartz is an alumni of Drexel University holding a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Presently, she serves as the Director of Clinical Services for Spine & Sport PT where she oversees all clinical quality, education, and training programs. Passionate about professional growth and innovation in physical therapy, Starla has contributed to the field through mentorship programs, leadership training, and the development of clinical specialty programs. Her research has been featured in the Physical Therapy Journal of Policy, Administration, and Leadership, highlighting the impact of Telehealth on musculoskeletal care. She has also presented at national conferences, including the APTA’s Combined Sections Meeting (CSM), where she discussed the role of Physical Therapists in a multidisciplinary wellness initiative for firefighters. She is passionate about educating clinicians and connecting with students and professionals who share her enthusiasm for shaping the future of physical therapy.

Patrick Langit Organizational Development Manager

Patrick Langit
MS-HI, MS, ATC, PES

Director of Student Clinical Education

Patrick has been a Spine & Sporter since 2021 and plays a key role in supporting the growth of students and clinical instructors. Patrick has been a Board-Certified Athletic Trainer since 2013 and is an alumnus of San Diego State University (B.S. in Athletic Training), West Virginia University (M.S. in Athletic Training), and the University of San Diego (M.S. in Healthcare Informatics), with clinical experience in the outpatient ortho, professional sports, and collegiate sports settings. Patrick has a keen interest in the rehabilitation of post-operative orthopedic conditions and injury prevention strategies in the upper extremity, particularly in the sport of Volleyball. Patrick enjoys collaborating with healthcare professionals and leveraging an interdisciplinary approach to driving the success of patients and students. Patrick has served as a clinical instructor & preceptor for multiple accredited athletic training programs and represents Spine & Sport PT on advisory committees for various professional healthcare programs.

 

 

Clinical Rotations & Fieldwork Experiences




Spine & Sport University is proud to offer structured Clinical Experiences to Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy Assistant, Occupational Therapy, Occupational Therapy Assistant, and Athletic Training Students. Clinical Experiences are a requirement of a student’s school sponsored professional program and are offered on a first come, first served basis.

Our approach to clinician development emphasizes the need to place our students in an environment where they feel supported and confident in their development and success. As a student at S&S-U, you can expect:

  • A close partnership with a dedicated Site Coordinator who ensures a seamless transition into the clinic with structured support and follow-up throughout your rotation.
  • Access to virtual and in-person learning experiences featuring industry leading clinicians within Spine & Sport PT and in the community that are aligned with your career goals! (Offered exclusively to S&S-U students and alumni)
  • Benefit from personalized mentorship by a seasoned Spine & Sport clinician.
  • Placements for clinical experiences can only be made with a college or university where there is an existing affiliation.

Student Internships



Spine & Sport University admits students seeking hours for internships that are directly associated with a college course they are taking where academic credit is awarded. In an internship, students can experience life at Spine & Sport PT and be immersed in our clinic environment that prides itself on a patient-centered approach to care. In some cases where it is permissible by the school, the student can be engaged in light tasks to assist our care teams.

Internship placements can only be made with a college or university where there is an existing affiliation.

Student Observation Experiences

Are you a student seeking application to professional programs in Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy Assistant, Occupational Therapy, or Occupational Therapy Assistant? Or are you genuinely curious about the limitless world of Physical Therapy and want to find out more? Spine & Sport University also hosts students for voluntary observation experiences.

Observation experiences are granted for a duration of up to 8 weeks with up to 12 hours per week of time in the clinic. Observation experiences are voluntary and unpaid; therefore, no physical work is permissible in this experience. However, a student can find themselves in an immersive experience within our clinics where they can obtain exposure to physical therapy and learn from our esteemed clinical staff.