Class of 2021 DPT Spotlight: Beckett Gandolfi
Beckett Gandolfi, class of 2021 Doctor in Physical Therapy candidate, served the community on campus and beyond. During his time at CSULB, he advocated for students with special needs, participated in adaptive events for children with disabilities, and worked with high-risk heart and lung patients at the UCI Medical Center.
Q&A with Beckett Gandolfi
What extracurricular activities did you participate in during your time at CSULB?
Beckett participated in adaptive events for children with physical disabilities (stand up paddle boarding, rock climbing, bicycling).
Beckett: I am an avid rock climber having climbed in 7 different countries ranging from small boulders to 3,000 ft faces. I have bicycled across the country with no support (just what I carried on my bike)."
Describe a challenge you experienced during your time at CSULB. How did you overcome that challenge to get where you are now?
Beckett: I have a learning disability with entails a high aptitude to solve problems but also a huge deficit in processing capacity. Thus, the volume of information (reading and writing) my largest challenge. I overcame it by spending more time with the material to close the gap. minimizing the commute, reducing sleep, streamlining activities of daily living.
Students in the College of Health and Services are committed to creating a better, more equitable world. Describe any efforts you have made to advance social justice or racial equity. What has been the impact of your efforts?
Beckett: I have been on multiple boards to advocate for students with special needs through the BMAC center. I have volunteered with multiple nonprofits that put on events for athletes with physical disabilities (special Olympics, blind special olympics, social trykers, adaptive freedom foundation).
The College of Health and Human Services is about people and helping them to live happier, healthier and safer lives. How have you served your community during your time at CSULB and/or during the pandemic?
Beckett: In PT school, you have to work in the field to ensure you are ready to work post-graduation. I was fortunate enough to work at UCI medical center in the cardiothoracic step-down unit. I did not work with COVID patients directly, however, I worked with high-risk heart and lung patients, helping them become more independent at home and in their community.
