Health Professions Student Fast-Tracks Journey to PT Career

Through Sacred Heart’s accelerated program, Sophia Gatto balances rigorous academics, athletics, and hands-on experience on her path to becoming a physical therapist

Key Highlights

• Sacred Heart University student completed undergraduate degree in three years through SHU’s 3+3 DPT program
• Balanced Division I rowing with rigorous academic demands
• Gained hands-on experience through multiple PT aide internships
• Credits strong faculty mentorship and peer support for success

For Sophia Gatto ’25, pursuing a career in physical therapy has never been a question—it has always been the goal. Through Sacred Heart University’s accelerated 3+3 Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, she has turned that goal into a fast-paced and focused reality.

A native of Huntington, NY, Gatto is an exercise science honors student who graduated magna cum laude in 2025, completing the undergraduate portion of the program in just three years. Now continuing into SHU’s DPT program, she reflects on a journey shaped by discipline, support, and a clear sense of purpose.

Gatto was first introduced to Sacred Heart by her sister, Julia Gatto ’20, ’21, ’26, but said her decision to attend the University was entirely her own.

“My sister had her own amazing journey here, but I wanted to choose a school that truly fit my academic needs,” Gatto said. “The physical therapy program stood out to me right away, and I knew it was the right place to help me reach my goals.”

Recruited to row at SHU, Gatto balanced the demands of Division I athletics with the rigor of an accelerated academic track. She credits her time on the rowing team, along with her involvement in the exercise science club and pre-physical therapy club, for helping her grow both personally and professionally.

“Being in an expedited program while also competing as a student-athlete was definitely challenging,” she said. “It required a lot of discipline and time management, but it pushed me to stay focused and committed.”

Gatto also emphasized the impact of faculty support throughout her undergraduate experience. She developed a close relationship with her academic adviser, professor Matthew Moran, who played a key role in helping her stay on track.

“He guided me through the program and helped me manage everything so I could complete it in three years while maintaining my GPA,” she said.

Outside the classroom, Gatto gained valuable hands-on experience, completing three summers of internships as a physical therapy aide. These opportunities enabled her to apply what she learned in class to real-world settings and further confirmed her passion for the field.

Now immersed in the graduate phase of the program, Gatto acknowledges the intensity of her schedule.

“My program is a big commitment,” she said. “I have a lot of classes and long days, and most of my free time is spent studying or completing assignments.”

Despite the demanding workload, she finds ways to maintain balance by staying active and connected with others.

“When I do have free time, I like to work out, go for runs and spend time with my friends,” she said. “I also really appreciate how close everyone in the program is. My peers are so supportive, and that makes a big difference.”

Gatto said the program, while rigorous, has been one of the most rewarding parts of her academic journey.

“It’s definitely difficult, but it’s worth it,” she said. “I truly enjoy learning this material, and I know it’s what I want to do in the future. I’m incredibly grateful for this program and the education I’m receiving.”

As she continues her journey toward becoming a physical therapist, Gatto remains focused on the same goal she set from the start—making a meaningful impact through her work and helping others recover, move, and thrive.