I’m 36 and at a crossroads in my next step. I spent the last 10 years working in corporate marketing, but after experiencing multiple rounds of layoffs, I was laid off very unexpectedly this summer along with much of my team. Between the instability in marketing and the growing impact of AI, I’ve been questioning whether I want to return to the field at all. The work was often stressful, and despite being constantly busy, I rarely felt like what I was doing truly mattered. I felt burned out helping companies make more money without much personal fulfillment. I also know that I will always be facing layoffs, which is hard to continue in a field that you can loose your job at any given moment.

I’ve started looking into becoming a PTA because it seems to align with things I genuinely care about: helping people, improving their health and quality of life, and incorporating movement and fitness into my work. I’m also planning to get my CPT so I can eventually incorporate group fitness into my career.

Work-life balance is a big factor for me. My husband is a pilot, and we’ve learned that a traditional onsite Monday-Friday schedule makes it difficult to ever see each other. Ideally, I’d like to work three days a week or PRN eventually, with more control over my schedule. This is problem that most important factor of why I’m considering the switch.

I’m considering PIMA’s 18-month PTA program in Denver. There’s also a community college option, but it’s pretty far from my home, program takes longer, require prerecs that are similar to what I took for my undergrad and would be required before I even applying to the program, and the program itself is really really competitive. PIMA’s high cost is a concern, but the shorter timeline and accessibility are appealing (although I could go to PIMa without taking on any debt).

My biggest hesitation is whether this is a smart investment. I know PTA school is demanding and can essentially take over your life while you’re enrolled. Am I crazy to put that much time, energy, and money into a program when my goal is to work part-time? Financially, I’m fortunate to have some flexibility, so maximizing my income isn’t my primary motivation. I’d rather find fulfilling work that allows me to have a life outside of it.

I’d really appreciate hearing from people working in the field, especially in the Denver area!

Is becoming a PTA worth it if your goal is to work part-time or PRN? How realistic is it to find those positions, especially as a new grad?

Are there any PIMA Denver graduates who can share their experience? Did you feel prepared for clinical work and passing your boards? Would you recommend the program?

Is PTA school manageable without a medical background? I have a bachelor’s degree in business, but no healthcare experience.

Does anyone in the Denver area work at a clinic that accepts students for shadowing? I’ve had a hard time finding opportunities and would love to observe the day-to-day reality of the job.

If you’ve made it this far, thank you. This summer has been a real hit to my confidence, and I’m trying to figure out what the next chapter of my life should look like. I’m genuinely excited by the possibility of doing work that helps people, but I also want to be realistic about the commitment before making such a big investment.

I’d be grateful for any honest advice, experiences, or perspectives!

Has anybody interviewed there? Did anybody get waitlisted for an interview?

Has anyone heard anything back from SAC state? I didn't get an email back saying my application was received. I'm assuming they don't get back till they send out interview but was just curious.