The world spends its life in search of therapy–a remedy for its aches and anxieties that can overwhelmingly haunt one’s body and mind. 

Senior Makenna Snyder hopes to aid in that cure by going into physical therapy one day. As with the majority of teenage girls, societal and parental expectations weigh on her. Yet, she is determined to not let that keep her–or anyone else–down. Those who know Makenna see what a perfect profession this would be for her. Although Makenna may be unable to see all the beauty that she has both inside and out, anyone who knows her can feel her glow. For Makenna, her light always shines through during darker moments.

Makenna attributes this strength to the most influential person in her life: her mother. “My mom has always been there for me–especially when my dad hasn’t,” she states, explaining that her parents divorced when she was just seven. In fact, she credits the bond between mother and daughter as being therapeutic. Makenna describes her mother as always displaying “kindness and determination,” characteristics she hopes to also showcase.

In addition to finding comfort through her mother, Makenna has also found it therapeutic to “find comfort in rest.” And, her bedroom tends to be her place of refuge when anxieties fill her mind. “I love my bed,” Makenna confides. “Sleeping brings me peace.”  Ironically, what she chooses to watch while falling asleep, some might consider far from calming. “I fall asleep to True Crime. I’ve listened to every case!” For Makenna, it is a form of visual therapy.

In addition to therapies for the mind, Makenna recognizes the need for therapies of the body. Uniquely, Makenna’s go-to choice is bowling, setting her apart from interests such as volleyball, track, soccer, beauty, fashion, or art–activities that most teen girls involve themselves with. “Bowling has taught me so much,” Makenna asserts, emphasizing her therapeutic relationship with her sport. Mentally, bowling teaches resilience, focus, patience, and the ability to adapt. Makenna exhibits such mental strength parallel to the sport she participates in. A proud accomplishment for Makenna is her success in the high school state bowling tournament. 

As a 2026 senior, Makenna is equally excited for a new chapter that is about to begin: her college experience at Indiana University South Bend. Like many, Makenna is ready for a new start–and ready to explore a career in physical therapy, a choice inspired by her participation in physical therapy following a knee injury. “I just really enjoyed physical therapy,” she recalls. “Everyone was so nice.” Makenna attributes her positive experience to her burning passion of pursuing this as a potential career.  

Makenna Snyder is a perfect blend of being unique and relatable. She is both loving and passionate. It’s no surprise she has aspirations of healing the world through a therapeutic field.