It Started at Family Retreat

For years, Jorey Thorman watched Hardin-Simmons University physical therapy students serve at Joni & Friends Family Retreat — a place where faith, joy, and service come together to create lasting impact. Today, she’s one of them.

“I loved watching them serve at Family Retreat,” she remembers. “It was inspiring to see them using their skills to help their campers. Every cohort that came through was always willing and ready to serve wherever they were needed. I was impressed with the way they interacted with their campers. Some individuals are more hesitant when working with children with special needs. The HSU PT students never seemed anxious or concerned.”

One summer before starting PT school, Jorey served as a leader for a group of campers and witnessed a moment that would stick with her.

“One of the PT students in my group had a particularly challenging camper,” she said. “I was so impressed with the way that she handled herself. She always had a smile on her face and never got frustrated. That made such an impact on me.”

That kind of steady, compassionate service shaped Jorey’s vision for her own future.

“Knowing that serving is important to the HSU DPT program helped influence my decision,” she said. “I wanted to go to a PT program that would not only help me become a good physical therapist but also help me become a better person. They challenge us to use the skills we’ve learned to serve others. I’ve grown so much in my faith and as a person since starting PT school.”

Her time at HSU has taken that call to service far beyond the retreat.

“I even had the opportunity to serve individuals in Kenya,” she said. “The trip was life-changing and opened my eyes to the many ways I can use my education to help others and make an impact in their lives.”

Returning to Family Retreat as a PT student felt like coming home.

“It was really a full-circle moment for me,” Jorey said. “I decided I wanted to go to PT school when I was at Family Retreat years ago. It was such a special year to come back as a student and look back on all the blessings that have come from that place. It was by far my favorite year yet.”

Interested in a physical therapy program that prepares you to serve anywhere? Learn more about HSU’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program.