Laying the Foundations: My Journey as a First-Year OT Student
Occupational therapy (OT) has always been present in my life. My mom is an occupational therapist, specifically a CHT (certified hand therapist), and I learned so much about the field from her. What also brought me into the field of OT was having the experience of working in an occupational therapy clinic and seeing OTs in action. Through my own experience as a patient, I found my questions and concerns brushed off or left unanswered, and I was given recommendations that didn’t fit my lifestyle. This left me feeling like I was the problem. Fast forward to working in an OT clinic, I found an area of healthcare where the patient’s background, lifestyle, and context is the first priority in treatment. OTs consider their client’s strengths and abilities first rather than their limitations, conditions, or injuries. OT has a unique lens and place within healthcare that is versatile and vital to the healthcare system. The profession is always growing and expanding and it's very exciting to be part of that!
I am so glad that I found myself at the OT program at Tufts University. What I appreciate most about the program is the early exposure to working in the community and gaining hands-on experience. Courses are dynamic, interactive, and comprehensive. Peers in my cohort have become a supportive community for me. They are people I can count on to study for exams with, or relax and grab a cup of coffee with. The cohort of students in their second year welcomed us at the beginning of the program by planning a week of festivities and social activities like lawn games, karaoke, an ice cream party, and a coffee hour! Professors and staff members are supportive, and want you to succeed. They are incredibly resourceful and more than willing to share professional/clinical experiences. Course work and in class activities like diving into case studies, working in groups, planning activities, and even visiting the Tufts art gallery to expand our observation skills are very engaging. I am happy to feel competent and capable in all areas of the curriculum thanks to hard working staff and students within the program.
I initially worried it would be difficult to achieve a healthy school/life balance, as many students may experience in a graduate level program. While the curriculum is robust, I have been more than able to strike that balance. Tufts Doctoral OT Program is designed to balance in-class activities with experiences out in the community. I have really appreciated the real world application so early in the program. Starting the first fall semester, I’ve led groups of adults with intellectual disability in weekly activities designed and planned by us students! I also had the opportunity to participate in adaptive sports with peers and community partners. We have student organizations that anyone can join, which offer a chance to connect with peers and even the wider Tufts community. I have been enjoying things like fiber crafts, a book club, and many social outings with peers since the very first week of school! The location of the Medford campus is perfect to explore Boston with accessible public transportation, green space, and bustling surrounding neighborhoods with plenty of yummy food options!
My OT passion area is in hands and the upper extremity. Before coming to Tufts, I had the privilege of working at the outpatient hand clinic at Mass General, and observing many skilled therapists. I am fascinated with the creative ways that hand therapists adapt tools, create splints, and collaborate with patients to get them back to doing the everyday activities and tasks they need and want to do. I am very excited to begin my first course in the elective upper extremity certificate within the OT program here at Tufts. I will be learning alongside working OTs and students from the different cohorts! It is an amazing, hands-on (no pun intended) opportunity.
A piece of advice I would give to prospective students is to seek out any and every learning opportunity you can. Embrace moments that seem challenging both on your career journey and in life, as those are the moments during which you learn most from (bonus: may become a good essay/interview topic!). Have confidence in your abilities and knowledge; Let your authentic self show in your essay and interview. OT is all about embracing the unique lived experience of all individuals. Attending information sessions is helpful to hear first hand from current students and to have your questions answered. The Tufts campus is very beautiful to walk around, and close to Davis Square, so take advantage and spend the day exploring.
If you are passionate about human connection, collaboration, creativity, and a holistic approach to health and wellness, OT is for you! There are so many options within the field, and you are certain to find your niche and where you truly shine as an individual. The Tuft’s OT doctorate program will help you get there!