Commencement Spotlight: Austin Holton

ASU COMMENCEMENT SPOTLIGHT: AUSTIN HOLTON, CAREER ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE, PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT 

PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT, ARCHBOLD MEMORIAL HOSPITAL AND SOUTH GEORGIA MEDICAL CENTER

Austin Holton, a 32-year-old Valdosta native, will graduate on Dec. 13 with an associate degree in Physical Therapy. He assisted in establishing the new East Campus Health Center and excelled academically as the highest-ranking student in the PTA program. Austin completed clinical rotations at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates and Archbold Memorial Hospital, where he conducted research and delivered in-service presentations on total hip replacement precautions and safe patient handling. Austin is also a proud recipient of a Darton College of Health Professions Foundation Scholarship, recognizing his dedication to the healthcare field and his commitment to providing safe, effective patient care.

What motivated you to learn more about your field?
My previous injuries that required physical therapy initially sparked my interest. Working as a physical therapy tech in Valdosta gave me deeper insight into the profession. As a non-traditional student, I reached a point in my life where I wasn’t sure what direction to take. I was tired of physically demanding jobs, so I worked with a life coach who helped me identify my true passions. He encouraged me to explore physical therapy because of my desire to help others, my fascination with people and their stories, and the fulfillment I feel when watching someone recover from a life-altering injury. 

Why did you choose ASU?
ASU is one of the few institutions that offers a PTA program, and it is widely known as one of the best in the state. If I was going to pursue a PTA degree, I wanted to learn from the best. 

What are your post-graduation plans?
My plans are to work as a PTA in both Valdosta and Thomasville. I have a wife, a child, and another on the way, and I look forward to spending my free time with them as we continue to grow as a family. 

What do you love most about your chosen profession?
The people. I enjoy hearing their stories, learning their personalities, and helping them regain function so they can return to their previous level of independence. 

Who has made the biggest impact on you, and who do you consider to be a role model at ASU?
All the instructors in the PTA program made a tremendous impact. They were passionate about building a positive learning environment and helping us grow as students, professionals, and individuals. They always went out of their way to support us, and I hold deep respect and appreciation for each of them. 

What is your favorite memory from your time at ASU?
The downtime between classes, especially going to Austin’s Smokehouse with classmates to grab BOGO wings. 

What advice would you give to other ASU students? 
Stay committed, don’t give up, and put in the effort. Completing this program has been one of the most fulfilling accomplishments of my life, and I hope you experience that same sense of pride. 

What would you say to a high school student about choosing ASU to further their education? 
Take your time and figure out what you truly want to do. Once you find your passion, school becomes much more enjoyable. I wasn’t a strong student in high school because I didn’t love what I was studying. Everything changed once I found my purpose. Everyone’s journey is different, but if you are like me, discover what drives you and pursue it wholeheartedly. 

For information regarding commencement, please click here.