Physical Therapy Student Ambassadors
Each year approximately 30 PT Ambassadors volunteer their time and energy to be the student voice of the DPT program. All of our Ambassadors are actively involved in campus culture and the local Physical Therapy community, and work closely with the Admissions Office to provide an invaluable resource for prospective students.
We encourage you to speak with a current student about their experience applying to and choosing 51ºÚÁÏ's School of Physical Therapy. Ambassadors' emails are provided below, and they will be happy to help you learn why Pacific is the school for you!
Lead Ambassador
Name: Ashley Baron
Email: c100148u@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Oregon State University
Major: Kinesiology, Pre-PT
Hometown: Bothell, WA
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose 51ºÚÁÏ because of the personal connection the faculty and students strived for when I attended open houses and my interview. Whether in an email answering a question or during the student panel at my interview, I felt like the personnel at Pacific wanted to make a genuine connection with me and wanted me to succeed on my path to becoming a PT. Going through the program, I have felt that desire to support and foster encouraging learning environments even more! Pacific has felt so warm and welcoming throughout my entire application and academic path!
Hobbies: I enjoy watching sports, traveling, baking, braiding hair and trying new coffee places with friends!
Class of 2029
Name: Mitch Aberg
Email: maberg@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Boise State University
Major: Kinesiology
Hometown: Boise, ID
One Reason I chose Pacific: One of the reasons I chose Pacific was because of my experiences observing/meeting with former Pacific DPT alumni. The way they carried themselves and cared for their patients helped point me towards Pacific’s DPT program where I’ve been welcomed, supported, and challenged.
Hobbies: Playing/watching sports, mountain biking, running, dirt bikes, reading, watching movies, and playing video games.
Name: Kimy Anderson
Email: kimyanderson@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: 51ºÚÁÏ
Major: Kinesiology
Hometown: Hillsboro, OR
One Reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific for the close knit community and support! Pacific offers so many options for support, both academically and personally, and it provides a very welcoming environment, everybody at Pacific wants you to succeed, and they will help in any way they can.
Hobbies: Lifting, Hiking, Reading, Snowboarding
Name: Brooke Bohan
Email: Bbohan@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: 51ºÚÁÏ
Major: Kinesiology
Hometown: Everett, Washington
One Reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of the community. Everyone here feels so connected and from day one, I felt as though it was easy to make connections with my peers and professors.
Hobbies: Weight lifting, true crime documentaries/podcasts, volleyball, cooking, and being outside!
Name: Lily Cansdale
Email: lily.cansdale@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Oregon, Clark Honors College
Major: Human Physiology with a minor in Global Health
Hometown: Portland, Oregon
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of the welcoming community and the faculty’s genuine investment in helping students succeed.
Hobbies: Hiking, baking, reading
Name: Kymberlyn Hashimoto
Email: kymberlyn.hashimoto@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: 51ºÚÁÏ
Major: Kinesiology
Hometown: Hilo, HI
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose 51ºÚÁÏ for my graduate studies because of the welcoming faculty and students I met during open houses and my interview. Their deep passion for physical therapy created an inspiring environment that I knew would support and motivate me throughout my studies.
Hobbies: I enjoy playing pickleball, watching sports, hanging out with friends and family (and my dog when I'm home), and making ribbon lei.
Name: Carys Houck Teal
Email: chouck@pacificu.edu
Undergrad Institute: California State University, Fullerton
Majors: Biological Sciences and English
Hometown: Placentia, CA
One reason I chose 51ºÚÁÏ: Was hearing from the previous ambassadors during the application and interview process about how supportive everyone was at 51ºÚÁÏ. They told us about their classes and the professors and how strong of a bond their cohort had with each other and that was important to me.
Hobbies: Thrifting, Skiing, Hiking, Rock Climbing, Baking, Photography
Name: Jadyn Jones
Email: jadynjones@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Boise State University
Major: Kinesiology with a concentration in Rehabilitative Science; minor in Psychology
Hometown: Boise, Idaho
One Reason I chose Pacific: I chose 51ºÚÁÏ because of the sense of community that was created during interview day, and the entire application process. The faculty was so open about talking about their program, and really determining if it was the right fit for me. I felt that there was a genuine connection from the faculty, staff, and current students during all communications. The faculty wants their students to succeed in not just education, but becoming a great physical therapist. There are so many reasons as to why I chose 51ºÚÁÏ!
Hobbies: Reading is definitely my all-time favorite hobby! But outside of finding me reading a good book I love to hike, run, camp, occasionally doom scroll on Tik Tok, and dressing up to watch Belegarth tournaments.
Name: Julia Meyers
Email: juliameyers@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Puget Sound
Major: Exercise Science and NeuroBioethics
Hometown: Sammamish, WA
One Reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of the welcoming atmosphere and the genuinity that I felt came from everyone I talked to. I was seeking a supportive and strong community and Pacific represented that and more.
Hobbies: Swimming, weight lifting, reading, collecting records, drawing, plants
Name: Annabelle Nguyen
Email: annabelle.nguyen@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Oregon State University
Major: BioHealth Science and Pre-PT
Hometown: Vancouver, WA
One Reason I chose Pacific: I chose to apply to 51ºÚÁÏ because a few of the Physical Therapists I worked with in the past highly recommended the program and were PTs I strive to be like! The faculty and student ambassadors were also welcoming, helpful, and supportive throughout the whole interview process.
Hobbies: In my free time I like to play soccer, dance, sing, read, play brain games, and try new restaurants!
Name: Emalee Place
Email: Emaleeplace@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Washington State University
Major: Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology
Hometown: Vancouver, Washington
One Reason I chose Pacific: A reason I chose Pacific was because I felt very welcome on my interview day. I still feel this way as I have started my education and feel as if my peers and the faculty/staff treat us with respect and had open arms for us on day one!
Hobbies: I enjoy collecting records and physical media, reading, baking, and enjoying the outdoors with my friends and family.
Name: Taylor Poole
Email: taylorpoole@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Grand Canyon University
Major: Exercise Science - Pre-PT Emphasis
Hometown: Seaside, OR
One Reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific for the strong faculty support and learning culture. The faculty encourage wellness and success both in and out of school and are truly committed to helping students. Pacific has so many resources for student success that I felt like a place where I could truly flourish and succeed!
Hobbies: Hiking, swimming, skiing, coffee shop hopping, baking, and spending time with friends and family!
Class of 2028
Name: Maddie Broyhill
Email: Broy2938@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Linfield University
Major: Exercise Science
Hometown: Silverton, OR
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose 51ºÚÁÏ because I was able to see how much the faculty care about the well-being and success of the program's students. The faculty are always asking students what more they can do to support students through their education and beyond as we go into the workforce. It was clear my personal and professional well-being would be a priority during my time here.
Hobbies: I love to get outdoors by hiking, paddle boarding, and surfing. (Yes, at the Oregon coast!) I also enjoy doing things with friends and family around the area like farmers market, food trucks, and coffee dates!
Name: Kate Cooper
Email: b098496n@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Colorado State University
Major: Health and Exercise Science with a minor in Spanish
Hometown: Cashmere, WA
One Reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because throughout the whole application and acceptance process they truly want what's best for you, whether that's this program or another. For me I know physical therapy school is a lot so I wanted a program that not only supported me academically but personally as well.
Hobbies: Playing tennis, paddleboarding, crocheting, and working out.
Name: Mikey Edwards-Gonzales
Email: b098486n@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Cal Poly Humboldt
Hometown: Castro Valley, CA
One Reason I Chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because the university and DPT program have a fountain of resources to encourage student success. Resources like the Office of Accessibility and Accommodations, Academic and Clinical advisors, and peer student buddies made me feel like I would be supported in the program. These resources have already helped tremendously with my success in the program.
Hobbies: I enjoy hobbies such as fishing, car detailing, hiking, camping, and driving/traveling.
Name: Paris Love
Email: parislove28@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Whitworth University
Major: Health Science
Hometown: Gig Harbor, WA
One Reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because from the very beginning, the faculty and students made me feel genuinely welcomed and supported. The professors demonstrated a sincere commitment to their students' growth, both academically and personally, which really stood out to me.
Hobbies: Baking and Thrifting
Name: Makayla Lundgren
Email: mlundgren@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Wyoming
Major: Physiology
Hometown: Monument, CO
One Reason I chose Pacific: I chose 51ºÚÁÏ because of the kind and welcoming environment during the interview day. Compared to other schools, the students and the faculty at Pacific were so encouraging and completely straight forward when answering my questions. I left the interview feeling excited for school. I truly feel supported and valued in the program and love where I am!
Hobbies: Some of my hobbies include rock climbing, hiking, crocheting, and baking!
Name: Lovely Nilooban
Email: lovelyln@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Guam
Major: Health Science, Pre-PT concentration
Hometown: Guam
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of the super welcoming environment from not only the faculty, but other student ambassadors as well! I immediately felt the inclusivity throughout interview day and was drawn to the tight-knit and supportive community at Pacific.
Hobbies: I enjoy staying active and going to the gym, playing sports, trying out new foods, and especially love traveling!
Name: Morgan Penney
Email: mepenney@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of North Dakota
Major: Kinesiology
Hometown: Horace, North Dakota
One Reason I chose Pacific: I fell in love with the people that made up the program at Pacific. It was amazing to see a program that emphasized the importance of its students and their success in and outside of school. Everyone at Pacific cares about you as a student and an individual throughout the program and beyond. They have created an environment that fosters growth as you work towards becoming physical therapists!
Hobbies: I enjoy sewing, baking, traveling, hiking, spending time with friends and family, and cuddling with my dog, Dexter!
Name: Tracie Sun
Pacific Email: chen4199@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: 51ºÚÁÏ
Majors: Kinesiology and Psychology
Hometown: Shanghai, China / Portland, OR
One Reason I chose Pacific: I loved how welcoming everyone was which is why I chose 51ºÚÁÏ for both my undergraduate and graduate schools.
Hobbies: Reading, writing, playing video games, skiing, ice skating, hiking, camping, and many other outdoor activities.
Name: Angela Vega-Zamora
Email: angelavegazamora@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Portland State University
Major: Public Health Studies
Hometown: Milwaukie, Oregon
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because it offers a welcoming environment that values diversity and community. On my interview day, I observed the strong connections between students. The support from the faculty was also evident. This friendly atmosphere made me feel that Pacific would be an excellent place for me to grow both academically and personally.
Hobbies: Some of my hobbies include watching movies, trying new foods, and hanging out with friends and family.
Class of 2027
Name: Crystal Benitez Coronado
Email: beni2096@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: California State University San Marcos
Major: Kinesiology, Movement Science
Hometown: San Diego, CA
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose 51ºÚÁÏ because I immediately felt welcomed and valued — not just as a student, but as an individual. With abundant resources to support my success, I knew I could truly thrive here. In addition, the close-knit community at Pacific made me feel at home from day one, reinforcing that I'm exactly where I'm meant to be.
Hobbies: My hobbies include cooking, hiking, trying new coffee shops and food spots, and spending time with friends and family. In addition, I am also a competitive powerlifter and a certified USA Powerlifting State Referee and referee for meets on weekends when I am available.
Name: Emily Cheavtharn
Email: chea1248@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: 51ºÚÁÏ
Major: Kinesiology
Hometown: Salem, OR
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of the culture created by the students and faculty. I knew I wanted to be a part of a program that encouraged collaboration and creating relationships with fellow classmates and faculty. Since being a student, my expectations have been exceeded. The faculty here truly want you to succeed not only as a student but also a professional, and I've never been in such a welcoming and collaborative environment with my peers.
Hobbies: Playing sports, watching sports, cooking & baking, trying new places to eat with friends!
Name: Grace Comeau
Email: come2081@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Utah Valley University
Major: Exercise Science
Hometown: Oregon City, OR
One reason I chose Pacific: 51ºÚÁÏ was not on my list of schools at all when I was applying to go to school, and I only ended up applying because the Physical Therapist I got my observation hours under mentioned she had gone here and loved it. When I had my interview, I was blown away by the emphasis on student success both during classes and clinical rotations, but also by letting the current students speak for themselves on their experience. Pacific did not hide behind letting the applicants try and contact their students, or go to an event outside of the interview process, but decided to put their students front and center to showcase what it can offer. It made my decision incredibly easy in the end when it came time to decide.
Hobbies: I enjoy sports, especially basketball, going on road trips, hiking, cooking, and going to see movies with friends.
Name: Kai Crusos
Email: crus1986@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: 51ºÚÁÏ
Major: Kinesiology
Hometown: Santa Cruz, CA
One reason I chose Pacific: When I first looked into where I wanted to go I spoke with local PT's and they all said that Pacific was the best program in the PNW. I chose Pacific because of the smaller community and how welcoming it was during the interview day. I was so happy with how comfortable I was to talk with professors and ambassadors. I loved hearing about how much the ambassadors loved the program, and it really solidified my decision to go.
Hobbies: Handstands, circus, dancing, juggling, hiking, cuddling my dogs and going for walks.
Name: Elena DeLeonibus
Email: dele2106@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Oregon
Major: Spanish
Hometown: Portland, OR
One reason I chose Pacific: One reason was the warm welcome I felt from both students and faculty throughout the entire interview and admission process.
Hobbies: My hobbies include backpacking, hiking, biking, running, and camping.
Name: Mackenzie Lamey
Email: lame20289@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Washington State University
Major: Kinesiology, Minor in Strength and Conditioning
Hometown: Wenatchee, Washington
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of the welcoming environment and tight-knit community. Coming from a large University for undergrad, I wanted a program where I felt seen and known, and Pacific is exactly that. Since interview day I felt as though the faculty and peers have your best interest in mind, and do everything they can to help you succeed. It was also important to me that I could enjoy my hobbies, which the PNW provides the perfect opportunity for!
Hobbies: My Hobbies include hiking, mountain biking, skiing, surfing, paddle boarding and spending time with my friends and family!
Name: Marissa Layosa
Email: layo0082@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: 51ºÚÁÏ
Major: Kinesiology, Minor in Psychology
Hometown: Hanama’ulu, HI
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific for many reasons, but what stands out to me the most is the strong sense of community and support from the faculty and staff. They are genuinely invested in student success, creating an environment that encourages growth both academically and personally. This sense of community reminded me of the close-knit atmosphere I grew up with in Hawai’i, making Pacific feel like a home away from home.
Hobbies: Watching/playing sports, going to the beach, traveling, baking/cooking, being with friends and family, and being in nature.
Name: Meghan Michels
Email: mich0782@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Pacific Lutheran University
Major: Kinesiology with a concentration in Physical therapy, Minor in Exercise and Sport Psychology
Hometown: Medford, Oregon
One reason I chose Pacific: When I had the opportunity to tour the campus I immediately felt the energy and excitement about physical therapy! A priority for fellow students and faculty is to create an environment of support, hard work, and excellence. I immediately felt at home at 51ºÚÁÏ!
Hobbies: Some of my hobbies include soccer, fly fishing, drawing, hiking, and being with friends and family!
Name: Linzay Shirahama
Email: shir2109@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Portland State University
Major: International Studies: Latin America; Community Health Education
Hometown: Portland, Oregon
One reason I chose Pacific: The student ambassador panels at the open house and interview day really impressed me. I don’t think many places would have faculty leave the room and allow students to answer any prospective student questions. And then the ambassadors had all positive things to say! Beyond the ambassadors, I talked to many people with connections to Pacific and only heard glowing reviews. No wonder Pacific is such a well regarded university. The fact that Pacific makes it easy for prospective students to contact ambassadors showed me that Pacific trusts the students and is very assured in the caliber of the program. These things made me want to be part of the Pacific community.
Hobbies: Casual nature walks, hiking, backpacking, creative cooking, dehydrating creative cooking into backpacking meals, staring at my houseplants, aspiring to swim-bike-run, bouldering, stand up paddleboarding (SUP), attempting silly SUP tricks, being a semi-coordinated dancer.
Name: Austin Slobodian
Email: slob1849@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: 51ºÚÁÏ
Major: Kinesiology
Hometown: Porcupine Plain, Saskatchewan, Canada
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific due to the family culture I experienced on my interview day. From the faculty to the student ambassadors running the interview day I felt well-supported. The love for the profession of Physical Therapy was also embodied by everyone running the program.
Hobbies: I enjoy fishing, watching football, baseball, basketball and hockey, lifting weights, playing men's baseball during the summer, and going out for meals with classmates!