Isabella, from Niles, Ohio, is earning a Bachelor of Science in health sciences (pre-PT) and carries a strong passion for health and fitness. He began working at the CSU Rec Center during the first week of his freshman year. Building on that momentum, he learned as much as he could about the facility and became a leader and mentor to others, eventually serving as the youngest supervisor on the team. His dedication and commitment earned him the Employee of the Year award, as voted on by his supervisors. 

Isabella’s involvement in a scholarship program called Choose Ohio First enabled him to take part in research and internship opportunities that may not have been available otherwise. Within the program, he worked with two groups to create literature research projects later formed into posters and presented at the annual conferences. The freshman year poster titled “The Effects of Exercise on the Brain” won an award of excellence and next year, “Caffeine’s Role in Treating Neonatal Apnea of Prematurity”. 
 
His biggest inspiration for becoming a doctor of physical therapy came from a spinal cord injury he sustained while playing high school football and from the physical therapist who helped him work through the pain and become healthier and stronger. Today, he continues to work as a certified personal trainer, helping clients reach their fitness goals. His ultimate goal is to continue making a meaningful impact on others, driven by his deep understanding of how powerful physical therapy can be in treating injuries that can profoundly affect a person’s life and well-being. 
 
“As I reach the end of my undergraduate degree, I carry with me my academic commitment, but also strengthened confidence and leadership skills, time-management skills, and a strong foundation of knowledge,” he said. “I believe my academic excellence, research, service, and impact within the community make me a strong candidate for valedictorian.”