By: Jenna Salber PT, DPT, CLT-UE, NASM-CES
Navigating the world of clinical education in physical therapy is not easy, and the responsibilities of a Company Coordinator of Clinical Education (CCCE) are extensive. In this blog, we dive into Jenna Salber’s PT, DPT, CLT-UE, NASM-CES pivotal role as a CCCE, where she shapes the future of healthcare education and inspires the next generation of physical therapists.
THE ROLE OF A CCCE
Since 2018, Jenna has served as the Company Coordinator for Clinical Education. She is the liaison between the school’s Coordinator of Education and the place where students do their clinical rotations.
In her role, she communicates with various schools, ensuring that students (in-state and out-of-state) have opportunities to engage in various specialties offered at Spooner. This includes securing contracts, confirming all students have met the onboarding requirements, and pairing each student with a Clinical Instructor (CI) that would be a good fit for them professionally and geographically.
MATCHING CLINICAL INSTRUCTORS AND STUDENTS
Students are required to submit a video outlining their specialty of interest and any housing arrangements (if applicable). Based on the answers in their video, our CCCE will pair them with a CI that best matches their needs/wants.
Matching students with CIs is a meticulous process. The CCCE considers housing arrangements, geographical convenience, and therapists’ surveys to understand who is interested in mentoring students. Experience is also key, with a preference for therapists with at least one to two years of experience so that they are settled into their flow as practicing clinicians and can really devote time to teaching and mentoring their student(s).
STUDENT EXPERIENCE AT SPOONER
Students at Spooner gain exposure to various outpatient orthopedic specialties, including vestibular therapy, breast health, pelvic health, neuro, specialized sports therapy, and more. After completing their clinical rotation at Spooner, students will be energized about the profession and excited to begin their journey as physical therapists. Additionally, students will learn specific values and benefits they will want when looking for jobs in the future. A clinical rotation at Spooner sets students up for success.
WHAT SETS SPOONER APART
Spooner offers a wide range of experiences beyond the clinic’s four walls. Opportunities for networking, continuous learning, and mentorship across the company are provided to help students build connections and gain diverse experiences. Students are exposed to the company as a whole instead of just the clinic where they are placed. Spooner provides multiple opportunities for students to learn and shadow or co-treat with specialists. It is up to the student to take ownership of their learning and partake in these events.
OUR GOAL FOR STUDENTS
The ultimate goal is for students to enjoy their time at Spooner so much during their clinical rotation that they want to join the team permanently. Building connections on a professional and personal level is emphasized, which will help students navigate their early careers confidently.
JENNA’S MESSAGE TO STUDENTS
“Take advantage of any opportunities that come your way. Even if it sounds scary or outside of your comfort zone, you never know what you’ll like or what you’ll have a passion for. So, take advantage of those opportunities as they’re given to you because that could shape the rest of your career going forward.”
FINAL THOUGHTS
This blog aims to provide an insightful look into Jenna’s role and responsibilities as a CCCE. From coordinating placements to ensuring students have enriching experiences, the CCCE’s efforts are integral to the professional growth of future physical therapists. At Spooner, students are encouraged to immerse themselves in all opportunities available, setting a strong foundation for their future careers.