Spencer Campbell, Exercise Science

As a year-round competitive swimmer in high school, being active and independent was an important part of Spencer Campbell’s life.

During his time at Stockton University, the Exercise Science major’s focus shifted to helping others “live life to their fullest capabilities.” He said the turning point for him was when he started shadowing a local physical therapist as part of his coursework.

“I started seeing how these professionals make a difference in their patients’ lives and that allowed me to understand how fulfilling this career is,” said the Cherry Hill native.

Campbell was accepted to Stockton’s competitive Doctor of Physical Therapy program starting this summer. He said he chose to continue his education at Stockton because of its proximity to home, his familiarity with campus, the smaller class sizes and cost.

“I want to share my compassion with those who are hurting and improve their quality of life,” he said. “I love everything about Stockton, and I am happy to see familiar faces around campus.”

Campbell said his favorite memories are from spending time with his roommates and making new friends. He’s also enjoyed his Exercise Science classes, although he struggled initially with school-life balance in his first year.

“But I have grown and adjusted to being an independent student,” he said. “I overcame those challenges by using strategies like organization and planning, as well as finding ways to get involved and make friends to make Stockton a second home.”

That included joining the Exercise Science Student Club each year, where he served as vice president and president. He also planned, organized and volunteered at community and special events, including the Stockton Foundation Scholarship Benefit Gala.

He also represented the Exercise Science program at Discover Your Osprey Pathway, an event where high school and community college students can talk to faculty, staff and industry professionals to learn more about Stockton’s majors, minors and other special programs.

One of his favorite Stockton experiences has been working as an intern with the Athletic Training Office. He said it has helped him to get to know a new profession that’s similar to his interest in physical therapy.

“Seeing this unique profession firsthand is eye-opening. The opportunity to work with student-athletes is a great experience, especially during games and practices,” he said, adding that he’s going to continue to work there while pursuing Stockton’s DPT program. “You get to see all the moving pieces of the complex field of athletic training, which is seeing the injury, rehabbing the athlete and returning them to sport. These are parts of rehab I will not see as a physical therapist.”