For new or potential students

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Good morning all,

I'm still relatively new to this forum, though I've made my introductions and all. I have been lacking in things to say (mostly because I've been busy). Finally, I came up with something I did want to say.

If you are a potential or new massage therapy student, consider this:
1. Do your homework. Before you jump into ANY sort of schooling, research it, talk to therapists and students.
Here's an example: When we first started, a few of the guys in my class protested with things like "We weren't told we had to touch other men," and many of them attempted to refuse (these were grown men, mind you). Some schools won't give you the option because in the real world, you'll be working with a variety of clients and in some cases you won't be given the choice to refuse.
So be sure to consider all things.

2. Especially if you're a working adult, please don't return to school without a set plan -- especially when it comes to finances. It's heartbreaking to see people drop out because they can't pay for tuition, or because work and school is wearing them thin.

3. Get to know your school's staff. I'm not saying you should become a brown noser, but it's good to know people in high places and let them know you're dedicated. They will be more inclined to help you should you come across a problem.

4. When you do become a student, grab student insurance as soon as you can. It's relatively cheap, and it shows that you're dedicated to the path you've chosen. Also, if the school does any sort of charity event (i.e. on-site chair massage) you will more than likely qualify for such a trip because your behind is covered outside of school property. Most importantly, it's an easy way to receive updates regarding the field -- taxes, laws, etc.

5. Start working on your resume now. And if you're looking to working for yourself, begin building as soon as you can. I began giving massage as soon as I got my table from school. Recently I started sending applying for jobs. It's not a matter of getting them, but getting used to doing the dirty work of applications and interviews when it comes to this field.

6. Another helpful tool to have is a student business card. It makes networking a lot quicker in some cases.

In short, the more serious you are about school, the more likely better opportunities will come to you. At least this has been my experience.
Okay, I think I finally ran out of things to say. If you have anything to add, please do so.
Thanks for reading.

 

[Pompal 09.]

For new or potential students

And if you're looking to working for yourself, begin building as soon as you can. I began giving massage as soon as I got my table from school. Recently I started sending applying for jobs. It's not a matter of getting them, but getting used to doing the dirty work of applications and interviews when it comes to this field.

6. Another helpful tool to have is a student business card. It makes networking a lot quicker in some cases.

I would have to agree with these two in particular. Think of your student massages, yes, as a learning tool for you, but also as a start to your professional career. Start with your friends, but make sure to branch out. Ask them to spread the word that you are a student needing to work on NEW people. This will help you "get out there". Read about professional boundaries and put them into practice with these new "practice clients". Keep a mind-set that these are potential paying clients later.

I went thru as many friends as I could, I was leery of "practicing" on new people, not so much because I was uncomfortable but because I didn't feel confident as a student. Looking back, this was a mistake. I should have approached each person as if they were already a client and I was already a professional. It would have been much easier to make the change later when I started marketing for a private practice.

HTH

 

[Joel F]

Very good advice! When you decided to have something to say, it sure was important! Looking forward to more from you!

 

[DeathClub.]

This is awesome information!!! I'm still in school (a little more than half done) and I've seen ALL of these things... People can't pay for school, or they are slackers and don't want to do the massage, or they don't have a plan for AFTER we graduate. Awesome job, Fact _n_Friction!