Risky Students: Models of Inclusion and Exclusion for Disabled and Racial/Ethnic Minority Applicants in Physical Therapy

When educators label certain minoritized student populations as risky, it can lead to bias and avoidance behaviors. Such risk characterizations may also negatively shape the interpretation of otherwise strong candidates who come from minoritized backgrounds. There are no simple solutions to these challenges. Ongoing reflection and discussion of core pedagogical values are needed, potentially as part of holistic admissions activities and faculty retreats.