Alivia Christensen

Doctor of Physical Therapy candidate at Maryville University with a strong interest in pediatric rehabilitation and commitment to providing compassionate, individualized care. Dedicated to promoting growth, independence, and wellness in children and families through evidence-based practice and collaborative teamwork.

Empathy • Individualization • Developer • Competition • Achiever

Barnes-Jewish Hospital – Acute Care, Cardiothoracic ICU
Student Physical Therapist | Summer 2025

• Provided care for critically ill patients following cardiothoracic surgery, focusing on early mobility, pulmonary hygiene, and functional recovery in a high-acuity ICU setting.
• Collaborated with an interdisciplinary team to implement safe mobility interventions, including transfer training, ambulation with lines and drains, and patient/family education.
• Gained experience monitoring vitals and patient tolerance during activity, adapting treatment plans to meet complex medical needs.

Upcoming Clinical Rotations 

High Ridge, MO – Outpatient Orthopedics
Student Physical Therapist | Summer 2026

St. Luke’s Hospital – Inpatient Rehabilitation
Student Physical Therapist | Summer 2026

Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital
Student Physical Therapist | Fall 2026

Physical Therapy Club – Maryville University 2020-2025

• Actively participated in club events to strengthen professional development and peer collaboration.
• Supported initiatives that connected students with volunteer and networking opportunities.

Maryville University Career Fair 2020- 2025

• Represented PT students by engaging with local clinics and healthcare systems.
• Networked with professionals to explore future opportunities in the physical therapy field.

GO RUN Community Event – St. Louis, MO 2022, 2024

• Supported children and adults with adaptive needs during a community running event.
• Ensured safe mobility, encouragement, and participation for all athletes.

Maryville University – Diwali Cultural Celebration 2023, 2024, 2025

• Learned, modified, and taught a traditional dance to peers for a cultural celebration.
• Organized and led group practices, providing instruction, feedback, and encouragement to improve performance.
• Demonstrated adaptability by using visual, verbal, and kinesthetic teaching methods to meet diverse learning needs.

Maryville University – Nutrition, Fitness, and Health Course Capstone 2024

• Collaborated with peers to research and present on addictive behaviors in high school students.
• Educated classmates on risk factors, consequences, prevention programs, and wellness strategies.
• Developed public speaking, health education, and group facilitation skills.

Mercy Rehabilitation Hospital – Transfer Training Volunteer 2024

• Assisted nurses with patient transfer training, emphasizing safety, independence, and comfort.
• Strengthened interdisciplinary collaboration by recognizing and respecting the expertise of nursing staff in patient care.

Physical Therapy Club – Maryville University Class Rep 2025

• Served as liaison between faculty and peers, communicating student concerns, coordinating announcements, and ensuring timely dissemination of program updates.
• Assisted in planning and organizing class events and professional opportunities, fostering cohesion and engagement within the cohort.

Paraquad Health & Wellness Research Project – St. Louis, MO 2025

• Assisted with research examining health and wellness outcomes in individuals post-stroke participating in adaptive fitness programs.
• Engaged directly with clients to support wellness initiatives, fostering inclusivity and independence.

FUNfitness Special Olympics Event – Volunteer 2025

• Assisted with event setup and athlete registration, engaging with participants of diverse abilities.
• Gained insight into accessibility, inclusion, and the role of advocacy in adaptive wellness initiatives.

Student Advocacy Forum (SAF) 2025

• Attended professional forum focused on cash-based physical therapy models.
• Explored implications of reimbursement, patient access, and clinician autonomy, sparking reflection on future practice models.

Barnes-Jewish Hospital – Interprofessional Shadowing 2025

• Shadowed a speech-language pathologist during barium swallow procedures to deepen understanding of dysphagia management.
• Gained insight into aspiration identification via imaging and the role of interprofessional collaboration in holistic patient care.

Local Outpatient Neurorehab – Parkinson’s Dance/Tai Chi Volunteer 2025

• Assisted in facilitating dance and tai chi classes for individuals with Parkinson’s disease, supporting safe participation and promoting mobility, balance, and community wellness.
• Engaged with patients in a group setting, reinforcing the importance of movement-based interventions and therapeutic exercise in neurorehabilitation.

• Dean’s List, Maryville University, 2020–2024
• 4th Place, National Dance Alliance D2 Mix, Maryville University Dance Team 2022
• 2nd Place, National Dance Alliance D2 Mix, Maryville University Dance Team 2021
• Academic Scholarships: Barat Scholarship, Missouri Teachers Association Scholarship, KMA Memorial Scholarship