CI From Hell: You're Not Alone

Alright, I had no idea what kind of response I would get but it was crazy! I posted on Facebook a quick question including a little info about my experience with a terrible CI (clinical instructor). I thought at the time there must be something wrong with me. I thought I was the only one to have such a bad experience.

After 48 hours this was the response!


I know it doesn't look like much but when you take a closer look we have 335 comments. People who went through similar experiences. PT students who suffered through their internships with terrible CIs.

To me, this was eye-opening. A lot of the stories are very similar. The CI is very oppressive and belittling. Some are verbally abusive and use their students as slave labor.

Another common thread is that PT students are scared. They fear being failed. They fear being held back. They fear the thought of spending thousands extra because some CI somewhere who just met them is on a power trip and fails them.

If you are having a bad internship experience it's important to know you are not alone. Many of us have suffered and come out on top. Know that one CI's subjective opinion of you does not determine your future or your worth.

If you would like help or advice feel free to reach out. I would love to help if I can, even if it is just to encourage you. You can reach out via Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/dalin.hansen) or Twitter (https://twitter.com/dpt_usa)

Good luck!

Dr. Dalin Hansen, PT, DPT