Meet South University PTA Graduate Brandon Vixamar
When Brandon Vixamar was in high school, he hoped he would become a professional athlete. That plan didn’t work out, but he’s found a new way to pursue his interest in a related field: physical therapy. Brandon has been working in this field since earning his Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) degree in 2019 from South University, West Palm Beach. He currently works as a physical therapy assistant at Atlantic Therapy in Florida (where his colleagues happen to include another South University PTA grad!).
The Journey to Becoming a PTA
Brandon initially attended Florida Atlantic University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and health promotion. He wasn’t sure what to do, but after graduating, he wound up working as a physical therapy technician in an outpatient facility.There, Brandon was able to shadow and observe physical therapists and physical therapy assistants. Brandon enjoyed both working with patients and learning from his colleagues. He soon realized that becoming a PTA would be a good fit for his personality, his interest in helping others, and his passion for athletics. “I love physical therapy and was intrigued,” he recalls. “The PT profession helped me reinvent myself.”
Joining the South University PTA Program
Before long, Brandon learned about the South University PTA program. Where other schools had long waiting lists, South University allowed him to enroll and start working toward his goals almost right away. His classes expanded on what he’d already seen in the field, and he was able to build good relationships with his professors, including asking questions anytime he needed.“South University prepared me for my career through a rigorous program with great professors and an education that combined coursework in class with hands-on learning,” he says.
PTA Career Responsibilities
Now with five years of experience under his belt, Brandon is still always learning and striving to expand his skill set. Over the years, one of the ways he has grown is by regularly seeking advice on therapy interventions from physical therapists and more established PTAs. He also finds ways to think outside the box and be creative to help his patients. His long-term goals include opening his own practice.Today, Brandon works one-on-one with a variety of patients, including those who were injured in car accidents, at work, or at home. He is proud to provide quality care and use evidence-based practices when treating patients. He especially enjoys working in orthopedics, sports, geriatrics, and balance disorders. For Brandon, what’s most rewarding is seeing patients get better and optimizing their function for returning to regular life, sports, work, and anything else that brings them joy.
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Graduates are required to pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program.) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for additional information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
Programs, including all Medical programs, have a required in-person practicum, or externship. We cannot guarantee flexibility in these components of the program.
Testimonials have been provided by students/alumni in their own words and without coercion. This spotlight is based on information shared in 2025.
