A Hybrid DPT Student’s Perspective on Lab Immersions: Meet Olivia Maness

Earning your physical therapy doctorate is an exciting journey—and MUSC’s Hybrid Doctor of Physical Therapy (Hybrid DPT) program makes it possible to pursue your degree without uprooting your life, while still gaining hands-on, structured, career-ready training. The program combines interactive online coursework, immersive in-person lab experiences in Charleston, and real-world clinical training—all while keeping you connected to your community.

We spoke with Olivia Maness, a current student from Cary, NC, about what it’s really like to balance hybrid learning, travel to Charleston for labs, and build friendships while mastering clinical skills. From hands-on labs to exploring Charleston’s historic charm and connecting with peers, Olivia shares how the Hybrid DPT program is shaping her into a confident, skilled, and practice-ready physical therapist.

Can you share a bit about yourself and why you chose MUSC’s Hybrid DPT program?
My name is Olivia Maness, and I live in Cary, NC! I graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill in 2022 with a B.S. in Psychology and a B.A. in Exercise and Sport Science, then worked for a couple of years after college. I chose MUSC’s Hybrid DPT program because my husband’s job is inflexible, we have a great community where we live, and this program allows me to get an amazing education without relocating.

What has been your experience so far with the on-site labs, including faculty support and hands-on feedback?
The on-site labs are hard and tiring work each day, but that makes the challenge of combining knowledge and hands-on practice even more fulfilling. The faculty is absolutely amazing and wants nothing but for all students to succeed. They readily provide feedback and make themselves available to help whenever you need it. The whole experience is really rewarding!

What do you enjoy most about coming to Charleston for the hybrid labs?
Well, the sunrises and sunsets are enough for me. Charleston is beautiful! There are so many good coffee shops and restaurants to try, lots of areas to walk and run, and I really enjoy the chance to travel often while I am able to. It’s a mix of learning, exploring, and soaking in the city’s charm.

Have you been able to connect with your classmates and build friendships in the program?
Yes! As it would be for any new place or group, it can take a little while to get to know each other, but I met some girls early on who have made my time in the program so much fun. We study together and hang out when we are in Charleston, FaceTime to study before exams sometimes, and text all the time! It really helps to feel part of a supportive community, even when most of our learning is remote.

How have the in-person labs supported your learning and confidence so far in the program?
The in-person labs truly help solidify concepts and skills that I have been working on remotely. I often go into the labs feeling a bit nervous, but by the end, I am proud of myself for tackling something challenging and for how much I have learned. I also leave feeling a lot more confident in myself! These lab immersions are a vital part of the hybrid experience—they bring learning to life in a way that online classes alone can’t.

Expore Hybrid:
Olivia’s experience highlights the unique balance of geographic flexibility, support, and hands-on clinical training that defines MUSC’s Hybrid DPT program. For students balancing careers, family, or other commitments, the program offers the opportunity to gain real-world skills, build confidence, and form lasting connections—all within an intentionally designed framework that prepares them for practice.

For prospective hybrid DPT students, Olivia’s story is a reminder that hard work pays off, and the on-site lab immersions are where classroom knowledge truly transforms into professional skill.

Learn more about the Hybrid DPT learning experience: