Meet Our April Traveler of the Month: Physical Therapist Judy J.
Every month, AMN Healthcare celebrates one exceptional member of our traveling healthcare community through our Traveler of the Month feature. This month, we are thrilled to spotlight Physical Therapist Judy J., whose passion for her work, love for adventure, and incredible connection-making abilities have made her a standout professional in her field.
Join us as we explore Judy's inspiring career, her keys to success as a traveling PT, and the advice she has for new travelers.
Judy’s Inspiration and Journey to Become a Physical Therapist
Judy’s path to becoming a Physical Therapist began with a personal experience. After her dream of competing in the 1984 Olympics was dashed, she underwent physical therapy at the University of Georgia. This transformative experience ignited her passion for the profession, revealing a new and fulfilling career path. "I found a wonderful, long-lasting career through physical therapy," Judy recalls.
Her inspiration to pursue a travel-based career, however, came from her love of adventure. A memorable backpacking trip through Australia and New Zealand with a fellow PT opened her eyes to the possibilities of exploring new locations while making a meaningful impact through her work. This adventurous spirit eventually led her to join AMN Healthcare, integrating her professional expertise with her passion for discovery as a traveling PT.
Key to Success as a Traveling PT
What has helped Judy succeed in her day-to-day roles and her overall career as a travel therapist? For Judy, the answer lies in her ability to connect with others and create meaningful relationships.
“I find common ground with all my coworkers, incorporating friendship and fun into every facility I work at,” she shares. These connections, Judy says, are not only professionally rewarding but also personally fulfilling. The friendships she has built with coworkers and other travelers have become enduring bonds that help strengthen her sense of community in every location.
Judy’s other secret to success? Immersing herself fully in her new surroundings. She takes every opportunity to explore the local area, try new experiences, and make the most of her time as a traveling PT. It’s this balance of professional dedication and personal exploration that has made travel therapy such a rewarding experience for Judy.
Judy’s Favorite Assignment
Among all the assignments Judy has taken throughout her career, her time doing home health in San Francisco stands out as her favorite. “I worked in Fisherman’s Wharf and the surrounding areas,” Judy recalls. “It was an incredibly memorable experience.”
The charm of San Francisco, combined with her interactions with patients and the opportunity to connect deeply with the local community, made the assignment unforgettable. San Francisco's iconic beauty and the warmth of the people she met along the way perfectly encapsulated what makes travel therapy so special.
Advice for New Allied Travelers
Judy is eager to share her advice with allied healthcare professionals considering travel therapy. One of her key tips? Bring your pets! “Don’t leave your pet behind,” she emphasizes. Judy travels with her dog, and while it can be challenging at times, she credits her furry companion as a source of joy and comfort during her travel assignments. “Pets are wonderful companions to help you when you need them,” she adds.
She also highlights the importance of having a supportive recruiter who understands your needs. Judy describes her AMN recruiter, Nicole Creighton, as “excellent and supportive,” and credits the AMN Healthcare team with always being there when she needs them. “AMN has great benefits and always has your back,” Judy says.
Finally, Judy encourages new travelers to fully immerse themselves in the experience. Build connections with coworkers, enjoy the local culture, and always remain open to learning and growing, both personally and professionally.
Celebrating Judy’s Journey and Looking Ahead
Judy J. exemplifies the spirit of a dedicated traveling healthcare professional, balancing professional excellence with an adventurous mindset. Her contributions as a physical therapist and her openness to fostering connections have made her an invaluable member of the AMN Healthcare community.
Are you inspired by Judy’s story? Follow AMN Healthcare’s Traveler of the Month series to see more incredible journeys from allied healthcare travelers just like Judy. If you’re ready to start your own travel therapy adventure, connect with AMN Healthcare today and take the first step toward an exciting and rewarding career.
