Coleman Champion: AJ Spruill
Jan 4, 2024
AJ is always smiling and trying to be better. He is the first to say hello to anyone around him. He took on the challenge of moving to Houston without knowing anyone. Now he knows everyone due to his outgoing and uplifting personality. When he is called to task on something, he always accepts the feedback and uses it to improve his knowledge and skills. I know he will be great with patients due to his kind and caring nature. – Michele Voight, Physical Therapy Assistant program director
Name
AJ Spruill
Residence & Hometown
Houston, Originally from Greensboro, NC
Degree or Certificate Program
- Physical Therapy Assistant
- Biology bachelor’s degree, Presbyterian College (Clinton, SC)
Year & Class
1st year, Class of 2025
Leadership Positions or Extra-Curricular Activities
I just completed first semester, and I plan to become more involved. I just needed a little time to adjust to my new college, job, and my new home in Houston. I really like HCC Coleman College, and I really would like to contribute in a way where I can help my fellow students.
Why did you enroll at HCC Coleman College?
I worked in a hospital as a rehabilitation technician in North Carolina, and the people there inspired me to go into physical therapy.
I was looking for the best opportunity to pursue my dream, and I found HCC Coleman College on the internet. HCC Coleman College had a fantastic program, and it was in Houston – a city full of opportunities and people who are trying to better themselves.
Why did you choose your program of study?
All I want to do in life is help people. In physical therapy, you’re not just helping someone physically, you’re also helping them mentally, socially, and spiritually. When people are in physical therapy, it’s one of the toughest times in their life. Giving them a light of hope during those darkest times is something I wouldn’t exchange for anything.
What do you like best about your college experience?
I love the new experience and meeting so many new people. I never thought I would be going back to school, but attending HCC Coleman College has made the transition much easier. It has a good community to help me make friends very quickly. Now I feel like I’m at home both in college and in Houston.
What do you like best about your program of study?
I like the way that we’re able to help our patients get back to where they used to be. Even if they cannot gain back 100% full mobility, they can still be independent.
I also love my professors. They are all very kind, helpful, and personable. They really get to know you and try to help you out the best they can with a little tough love.
When you are tired, what motivates you to push forward?
I really love this career path (which is my biggest motivator), but when I do get tired, I just remind myself that I’ve come too far. I invested and even relocated for my education, so I need to finish the journey despite any obstacles.
I also remember all the people who have helped me through this process, even if was just little words of encouragement.
What advice can you offer to help other students succeed?
Even through the toughest of times, the light will always come through. Keep pushing. Just remember that each day brings new opportunities for happiness and growth
Also, life is too short for regrets. Pursue the things you want to achieve in your life, so you don’t regret tomorrow.