Student Ambassadors

Student ambassadors can answer any questions you may have about what it is like to be a DPT student here at UB.

Rehabilitation Science class focused on adaptive sports basketball held in Alumni Arena.

Rehabilitation Science class focused on adaptive sports basketball held in Alumni Arena.

2026 - 2027 DPT Student Ambassadors

Do you have questions about what being a student in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program is like? Connect with a student ambassador who can tell you more about the Program.

Isabella Battaglia, Class of 2027

DPT Student Isabella Battaglia.

I am a first year DPT student with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from the University of Buffalo. Since 2019, I have been an active member of UB Women’s Club Ice Hockey. As a Buffalo native, I enjoy going to nearby breweries and staying active through local recreational softball and hockey leagues. I am also a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, and in my free time I love camping, going on hikes, and exploring the outdoors. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about being a student in the DPT Program! 

Makaila Potillo, Class of 2027

DPT Student, Makaila Potillo.

My name is Makaila Potillo, and I am a first-year DPT student! I received my Bachelor's of Science in Exercise Science, with a Minor in Public Health here at The University at Buffalo. Please let me know if you have any questions about the DPT program or UB in general. I look forward to connecting with you! Go Bulls & Go Bills!

Claudia Scampoli, Class of 2027

DPT Student Claudia Scampoli.

My name is Claudia and I am in the DPT class of 2027. I am a first year representative of the DPT club and I enjoy getting involved in the program as much as possible! I acquired my undergraduate degree in Exercise Science from UB in May of 2024 before starting the DPT program. I am interested in becoming a travel PT soon after graduating so I can experience what PT is like in other states, but the opportunities are endless! Outside of school, I enjoy staying active in any ways I can. I snowboard/skateboard in my free time, and I play soccer and ice hockey whenever I can. Please feel free to reach out with any questions, I look forward to connecting with all of you! Go Bulls! 

Joana Thomas, Class of 2027

My name is Joana Thomas and I’m a second-year DPT student! Before joining UB, I graduated from Rutgers University - New Brunswick with my Bachelors Degree in Exercise Science and a minor in Religion. Outside of school, I enjoy dancing and traveling whenever I get the chance! Please feel free to reach out with any questions, whether it be school-related or how to adjust to Buffalo as a transfer student. I look forward to connecting with you all!

Christian Walch, Class of 2027

DPT Student Christian Walch.

My name is Christian, and I am a current first-year DPT student in UB's 3+3 combined Exercise Science BS/DPT program.  Over my four years at UB, I was a member of the UB Honors College and an on-campus business fraternity while also participating in undergraduate research. Outside of school, I enjoy snowboarding, exercising and playing outdoor sports with friends. I'm always interested in meeting new people and learning from others. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the DPT program or UB, I'd be happy to help!

Teagan Dodson, Class of 2028

My name is Teagan and I'm a first year DPT student with a Bachelors in Exercise Science from the University at Buffalo. After I graduate, I hope to travel the country as a traveling physical therapist and become certified in pediatrics. Being from Buffalo, I am huge Bills and Sabres fan, and I hope to see the Sabres in the playoffs soon! Outside from academics, I enjoy playing soccer and spending time with friends and family. Please feel free to reach out with any questions you have!

Megan Horan, Class of 2028

Hi my name is Megan and I’m a first year student in the DPT Progam. I got my undergraduate degree in exercise science here at UB. Outside of school I love spending time with friends and my pets, staying active, being outdoors, and playing music. Please feel free to reach out with any questions!

Jenna Kersten, Class of 2028

My name is Jenna and I am a first-year student in the UB DPT Program as part of the 3+3 pathway. As a Buffalo native, it has been incredibly meaningful to continue my education at UB. One of the things I love most about the program is the small class size, which allows you to really get to know your professors and build strong connections with your classmates. The program is very hands-on, creating an engaging learning environment that helps bridge classroom concepts with clinical skills. Outside of the program, I tutor undergraduate students and enjoy staying active by playing volleyball. I look forward to connecting with you. 

Gabriela Vargas, Class of 2028

My name is Gabriela Vargas and I am a first-year student in the UB DPT Program. A great thing about UB DPT is the 52 weeks of clinical experience spread throughout the program, and I am excited to apply class material to my first clinical this summer! As a first-year representative, I love to be involved with the DPT Club and connecting with peers. Outside of class, I work part-time and engage in hobbies like going to the gym and playing tennis. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out!

The University at Buffalo is committed to ensuring equal access to its programs and activities. The entire notice of non-discrimination can be viewed at buffalo.edu/equity