Ida Hoxha, DPT 26’ is a shining example of how embracing opportunities can lead to remarkable success. Ida is a second year Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) student in the University of Hartford’s College of Education, Nursing and Health Professions (ENHP). The DPT program is a three-year, full-time, 12-month program. The undergraduate pathway for direct entry into the DPT program is through a BS in Exercise Science.
Ida’s journey at UHart is marked by determination, exploration and a commitment to her field of study. When asked what she enjoys most about being a student at the University of Hartford, Ida said, “The bond I share with my cohort is truly special. We not only dive into our studies together but also make time to connect outside of class.”
Some of Ida’s amazing milestones and accomplishments include:
Winner of the Catherine Worthingham Fellows CSM Scholarship from the APTA
The Catherine Worthingham Fellows CSM Scholarship is designed to inspire physical therapy students to strive for professional excellence and recognition as emerging leaders in the field.
Connecticut Student Council Representative
In this position, Ida represents Connecticut physical therapy student voices, performs community outreach, and organizes student-focused events and workshops. In July of 2023, Ida attended the Kansas City Leadership conference where she experienced her first live House of Delegates. Ida commented, “This experience helped open my eyes on the potential of the field.”
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Student Delegate
In November of 2024, Ida was appointed APTA Student Delegate by the APTA, where she represents over 30,000 physical therapy students nationally in the APTA House of Delegates (HOD). Ida says, “I wanted to be part of the conversation in assisting, drafting, and reviewing policy development that will influence the PT profession and student education.”
President, UHart’s Physical Therapy Student Association (PTSA)
As president of the PTSA, Ida serves as a liaison between physical therapy students and faculty, supports community services projects and coordinates social events.
Ida Hoxha DPT ’26, College of Education, Nursing and Health ProfessionsThe curriculum in our program is thoughtfully designed to set us up for success. While it’s challenging in the moment, by the time I entered my first clinical rotation, the feedback I received and the confidence I felt reaffirmed that I was more than prepared for this opportunity.
In addition to the milestones listed above, Ida is the president of the Student Special Interest Group (Connecticut Chapter) and she’s on the Northeastern Conclave Planning Committee. Additionally, Ida recently completed taking 20 Continuing Education Courses in 20 Days, which she documented in an article that was featured in the APTA Magazine. “This challenge pushed me outside of my comfort zone and encouraged me to dive into topics that I had little to no knowledge of,” Ida says.
Ida leans on the strong support system from her UHart faculty members. “I wanted to recognize Professor Pratt, PhD, who balances countless responsibilities each day yet remains my greatest advocate and biggest supporter. Her guidance in shaping UHart's PTSA association, in addition to her role as program director, has been invaluable and I feel beyond fortunate to have this support."
Ida is excited and optimistic about what the future holds after graduation. She envisions taking on a variety of roles throughout her career, including pursuing a women’s health residency, starting her own business or working with the APTA House of Delegates. Thanks to UHart’s support and challenging curriculum, she feels more than prepared for her future career. “The curriculum in our program is thoughtfully designed to set us up for success. While it’s challenging in the moment, by the time I entered my first clinical rotation, the feedback I received and the confidence I felt reaffirmed that I was more than prepared for this opportunity,” Ida comments.
Her go-to motto that she follows daily is, “If you weren’t capable, the opportunity would’ve never presented itself and once it does, it’s your responsibility to relentlessly pursue it.”