PT Ysabel’s Journey to the USA as a Grandison Scholar
For many Filipino Physical Therapists, the “American Dream” is a career pinnacle—a chance to support family, grow professionally, and secure a stable future.
However, the path is often paved with financial hurdles, visa complexities, and experience requirements.
In this exclusive interview, we spotlight PT Ysabel, a graduate of Mariano Marcos State University (Batch 2020) and a proud Grandison Scholar.
Her story offers a roadmap for aspiring PTs, highlighting the importance of starting early after passing the PTLE, choosing the right recruitment partner, and maintaining the right mindset.
Why Start Early? The Strategic Advantage of Being a Grandison Scholar
Time is a critical asset for aspiring global therapists. According to PT Ysabel, “Starting early in pursuing your American dream also gives you an ample amount of time to start earning, start living, working”.
This proactive approach is not just about personal ambition; it is deeply rooted in family responsibility.
For PT Ysabel, the goal was to earn “not only for myself” but also to help her family in return for “all the sacrifices they’ve done for me”.
Together, let’s hear PT Ysabel’s humble experience from being a Grandison Scholar to pursuing her American Dream with grit and determination
Table of Contents
Here’s a quick summary of the interview and PT Ysabel’s USA journey. Disclaimer: Some parts were translated and summarized in context. You may refer to the full raw video for complete review, experience and advise.
"Hi I'm Ysabel a graduate of Mariano Marcos State University Batch 2020 and a proud Grandison Scholar!"
The Interview: PT Ysabel’s Experience and USA Journey
Why did you choose Grandison to help you reach the USA?
I chose Grandison cuz they have this offer wherein they're going to give you a scholarship program, and wherein you don't have to shell out a large amount of money and they would be there for you every step of the way.
What was your primary motivation for pursuing the US path?
To reach my American dream for my family. Also in order to help them with all the sacrifices they've done for me and for me, to join Grandison is a way also to to earn talaga it's not only for myself consideration but also for the family.
How did you handle the waiting times and the process?
The waiting time was important, you have to be patient. It's not an easy process, you have to be patient. You have to work for it. You should have the the drive, if you really want it, you gravitate and do something about it.
How was your experience with the Grandison team?
With the Grandison team naman, I highly appreciate them for being there for me. They had guided me through all the steps and I am here right now, I am soon to be flying to the US and all is good talaga. They've been there through the steps, if I have questions they answer and they've been supportive.
What advice do you have regarding the board exams and self-doubt?
You have to prepare for the exam talaga, you should believe in yourself. Self-doubt is a big factor, do not to be overconfident din naman but you know believe in your answers, believe in yourself, you prepared for it so claim it. Claim it that you will pass the exam.
What specific support helped you the most?
The benefit that really helped me in achieving my American dream is the H1B The ability of Grandison to provide H1Bs as a faster pathway option despite the US retrogression
Essential Advice for Future Applicants
PT Ysabel’s journey emphasizes that success is a mix of logistical preparation and mental fortitude.
1. Conquer Self-Doubt: While overconfidence is discouraged, you must “claim it that you will pass the exam”. Self-doubt is a major barrier, and belief in your preparation is key.
2. Be Patient: The process is described as “not an easy process,” requiring patience and the drive to “gravitate do something about it”.
3. Live with Purpose: Beyond the logistics, Isabeli advises PTs to “live purposely” and “lead with passion,” putting their heart into everything they do
Breaking Barriers: The Grandison Difference
One of the most significant obstacles for Filipino PTs is the financial burden of the application process.
PT Ysabel chose Grandison specifically because of their “scholarship program wherein you don’t have to shell out a large amount of money”.
No Minimum Experience Required
A major competitive advantage noted in this interview is the experience requirement.
While many other countries and agencies “require a 2-year minimum experience hospital experience” to apply, Grandison allows candidates to proceed immediately after passing the boards.
This accelerates the timeline significantly for fresh graduates like PT Ysabel.
The H1B Visa Factor: Fastest US Route for PTs
Navigating US immigration is daunting. PT Ysabel highlights that a critical factor in achieving her dream was the “availability of Grandison to provide H1Bs”.
This visa support, combined with the team’s guidance, proved essential when dealing with the complexities of the US Embassy and retrogressions.
Conclusion: PT Ysabel’s experience as Grandison Scholar
PT Ysabel is now “soon to be flying to the US”. Her success story serves as a testament to the effectiveness of the Grandison program, particularly their scholarship offerings and H1B visa capability.
For Filipino PTs looking to follow in her footsteps, the message is clear: Start early, choose a supportive partner, and “Be Grand with Grandison”
Apply now and jumpstart your physical therapy career in the United States.
