Rico J. Gogo Diaz, DPT26

November 19, 2024

"As much as I would like to say I chose Tufts, it is rightfully just to say that Tufts chose me. I believe they recognized in me the very same values that align with theirs."

At Tufts DPT-Seattle, we believe in supporting every student’s unique journey to becoming a compassionate and skilled physical therapist. Rico J. Gogo Diaz, DPT26, a current DPT student at our Seattle program, shares his story—from growing up on the island of Guam to pursuing his passion for health care at Tufts. Read on to discover how Diaz's diverse experiences and the unwavering support of our faculty are shaping his path toward success in the field of physical therapy.

From Guam to the Path of Physical Therapy

"Buenas and Hafa Adai! My name is Rico J. Gogo Diaz, a Chamoru born and raised on the tiny island of Guam. The journey up to this point has been an uncertain, but surprisingly fulfilling one. I graduated from George Washington High School in 2012 and obtained a Bachelor's in Health Science with a Concentration in Pre-PT at the University of Guam in 2018. Since then, I’ve gained valuable experience in various healthcare settings, which solidified my aspirations to become a great healthcare professional."

Diverse Experiences Shaping My Path

"Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work in several impactful roles. I've trained multiple elderly clients over the age of 75, interned and worked at several PT clinics, worked as a research associate at a grant program focused on Alzheimer’s and dementia, and became vice president of a non-profit organization dedicated to health prevention. Additionally, I’ve worked at the local public hospital, where I performed CPR in many emergency situations. These experiences have given me a diverse skill set and a deeper commitment to my professional goals."

Why Tufts DPT-Seattle?

"As much as I would like to say I chose Tufts, it is rightfully just to say that Tufts chose me. I believe they recognized in me the very same values that align with theirs. When I learned more about Tufts, it resonated with me how great of an institution they are. Tufts has an extensive history in the medical world and is affiliated with over 1,000+ facilities! The knowledge that I’m part of a network so deeply embedded in healthcare brings me great pleasure and confidence as I move forward on my journey to becoming a physical therapist."

Supportive Faculty: The Backbone of My Education

"Among the depths of content and deadlines, it may seem disheartening at times, but it is the Tufts faculty’s enthusiasm and belief in us that keeps you striving to remain steadfast until the end. From the very beginning, it was clear to me how much they genuinely care about our success. I am incredibly fortunate to have the DPT-Seattle faculty by my side, offering unwavering support. They make themselves as accessible as possible and provide every resource necessary to build the successful healthcare professionals they know we can become."

Building Lifelong Memories and Friendships

"Although it has only been halfway through the first semester, I am confident this is just the beginning of many life-long memories, experiences, and friendships. I’m excited for the journey ahead and feel incredibly proud to call myself a Jumbo."

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