Every time I use the phrase "nontraditional student," I feel compelled to clarify that in some cases it's a euphemism for "older than most."

When I started physical therapy school in fall 2016, I was 36 years old.

It was the fulfillment of a dream that was almost 20 years old. Now, I'm done with coursework and only have clinicals and boards to do before the big dream is finally a reality: Kelly Clark, physical therapist. However, the next big milestone is one that is both incidental and enormous: Kelly Clark, doctor of physical therapy.