Spring 2010 PTWA Conference Costs

SPRING PTWA CONFERENCE
GREATER TACOMA CONVENTION CENTER
APRIL 16-17

When considering a PTWA Conference, the ongoing dialogue amongst students often comes down to cost. Yes, membership costs money ($80 - APTA dues, PTWA does not charge extra for student membership, but many states do!). Yes, the PTWA Conferences cost money ($60 per day advance registration). Unfortunately these conferences cost a lot to put on, and in fact, our student registration cost doesn't even cover the cost of our food for the day! So, in reality we are still getting a significant break and should take advantage of it while we can.

Attending conferences can be a lot of fun! It is a great networking opportunity, and getting out of the classroom and hearing about the issues we will be faced with when we graduate is invaluable. There is always tons of free stuff - pens, goniometers, tape measures, book-bags, everything! Also, many of the continuing education courses are great review sessions for classes you are currently in, upcoming exams, and the national licensing exam.

If you've noticed, PTWA Conference registration did go up this Spring, and does every year. The PTWA budget has been slashed all over the place to try to protect students, but they have to continue inching toward at least covering the cost of food. Sometimes your school may help pay for conference costs, and if you're an APTA section or SIG member (ie: Acute Care Section, Pediatrics Section, Private Practice SIG) they may also be an avenue for funding to at least ask. As mom always said, "No never hurt anybody." So, pony up the extra dough, contact some folks for possible financial support, get registered, and see you in April.

More info here: http://ptwa.org/Content/Conference/Conference.htm

Conference Programming:
Pharmaco-Therapeutics presented by David Hachey, MD
Management of Diabetes presented by Mary Sinnott, PT, DPT, MEd
The Art and Science of Running presented by Michael Hansen, PT
Legal Issues and Clincal Performance presented by Steve Milam, JD