As you work as a travel physical therapist, you'll experience a career in one of the most rewarding sectors of the healthcare industry. Travel healthcare professionals like you have the opportunity to help patients all over the country, working in the hospitals and facilities that need your expertise the most. Furthermore, taking on travel therapy assignments gives you the chance to expand your skillset and explore new cities.
One of the best aspects of working in new locations and cities all the time is that you get to make so many friends along the way. For some people, this can seem a little intimidating at first. If you're feeling apprehensive about developing friendships and creating a support system during your assignments, don't worry. This is completely normal, but the good news is that making friends as a travel physical therapist may be easier than you think.
Your coworkers are typically going to be your first chance to make friends while on a travel physical therapy assignment. Whether you are naturally an extrovert or introvert, do your best to be open to meeting people at work. Your fellow employees will likely understand that you're new to the area and be more than willing to help you feel comfortable in your new surroundings. Having an open line of communication with fellow physical therapists at the clinic is an important aspect of providing the best care to your patients anyway, plus it's the perfect way to develop friendships quickly.
Take your coworkers up on any invitations to grab lunch or a coffee and engage in conversations around the facility when your schedule permits. You never know if your newest, closest friend is the therapist working with you and you never know who they might know in the area that you will be able to add to your friend circle. You might also be surprised to find out there are other travel healthcare professionals working in your facility who are just as eager to meet new people. These can be especially great people to meet as you can all serve as a support system for each other during your assignments.
When you're not at work, get out and about as much as possible. Pick up a copy of the local newspaper or magazine and find out when and where the next community event is taking place. Perhaps there are free yoga classes in the park or an outdoor concert series down the street. No matter where you meet new people, simply keep a friendly and open attitude and the locals will surely be happy to consider you a friend.