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Sisters transition from classroom to clinic by Megan Fink Public Relations Jessica and Emily Chambers have been sharing clothes most of their lives, but their newest wardrobe addition will probably be off limits—white coats symbolizing the shift from early coursework to hands-on learning as doctoral candidates in the College of Health Professions.   CHP students Emily, from left, and Jessica take a moment to show off their white coats at the Physical Therapy White Coat Ceremony held July 20.   Jessica is heading into her last three rotations before graduating next spring. Emily has just completed her first year of classes. Both students participated in last month’s white coat ceremony for the Doctorate of Physical Therapy program (DPT).   The Charleston natives are trailblazers for the young doctoral program in physical therapy. And, as sisters, they agree it’s a benefit having each other on campus for scholastic guidance and even a listening ear when studies get tough.   “A lot of professors think she (Emily) always comes to me with questions,” said elder sister Jessica. “I don’t help her out as much as people probably think. If she asks me something, I’ll try and give her advice; but I go to her just as much.”   Some adjustments have been made to the physical therapy curriculum since the program recently obtained doctoral status, including the timing of the white coat ceremony. The event originally was to take place before the pioneer class of doctoral students, including Jessica, headed into their last leg of rotations. A decision was made, however, to bump the ceremonial dressing for the following class to earlier in the program. This placed both sisters at the same celebratory occasion.   Jessica feels this next chapter is an opportunity to work with her peers as a clinician.  “You’re in the lab practicing a technique, and professors only can describe how it will feel,” she said. “Once you get out to the clinic and actually perform therapy on someone, it clicks.”   To Emily, the white coat signifies the integration of class work and practical experience. She looks forward to traveling to the state of Washington where she will embark on her clinical journey. Emily is thinking of pursuing employment with a military facility where she would like to work with soldiers recovering from amputation and traumatic brain injuries. “I want a challenge and variety,” said Emily.   A long-time interest in sports and involvement in physical activities partially influenced the duo’s career choice. Jessica said she hopes to incorporate her love of sports by working for a professional team; preferably football.   Meanwhile, patient care runs in the Chambers family. The sisters' parents, Bruce and Deborah, are both registered nurses. Bruce also is an MUSC employee and alumnus.   Their message to incoming students: “Be flexible, patient and take the time to enjoy life.”   The white coat is more than a piece of clothing; it shows clinical accomplishment.     Friday, Aug. 10, 2007 Catalyst Online is published weekly, updated as needed and improved from time to time by the MUSC Office of Public Relations for the faculty, employees and students of the Medical University of South Carolina. Catalyst Online editor, Kim Draughn, can be reached at 792-4107 or by email, catalyst@musc.edu. Editorial copy can be submitted to Catalyst Online and to The Catalyst in print by fax, 792-6723, or by email to catalyst@musc.edu. To place an ad in The Catalyst hardcopy, call Island Publications at 849-1778, ext. 201.