cOnnecT with Jennifer Querques

Jennifer Querques: MOTII Student Representative, CAOT-BC Advisory Committee

Why did you choose OT as a career?

I have always imagined myself working in a profession that involved helping people. How I came across OT specifically was after my dad suffered from a traumatic brain injury and spent many months in a rehab center. I remember what a life changing experience it was to be exposed to him being taught how to do what I would consider at the time simple tasks, such as eating, again - something I easily took for granted in my day-to-day life. Seeing how quickly things can change in life and the role OTs played in recovery and restoring meaning was inspiring to me and allowed me to discover how much the values of OT aligned with what I wanted in a career and what I believed, leading me to where I am today.

What do you like about OT?

I love OT's focus on community participation! As someone who values being involved in the community, exploring new places and connecting with new people, I love that OT focuses on helping and problem solving so people can participate in their lives and the community around them.

What has been your most interesting job?

My most interesting job was when I was living in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I was working at a woman’s shelter that focused on helping woman become independent and create a meaningful life for themselves in the community. I met so many inspiring professionals from Canada, the US and Thailand, as well as the women and children themselves! It was very interesting to work in a culturally diverse setting and see in a different lens how social determinants of health play a role within a different cultural context. Over my time in Chiang Mai I learned so much about working in different cultures, building relationships and communication and how resilient people are.   

Tell us about someone who has influenced your OT practice?

Definitely my dad. Seeing first hand the impact a traumatic experience can have on your life is something that continues to inspire me. Remembering all the emotions surrounding the experience, from navigating the health care system, to my dad’s experience, to my own experience as a caregiver all serve as insight to what different clients and their families may be thinking or feeling throughout a process that can be very complicated and overwhelming when you are thrown into it. The experience with my dad reminds me to always stay grounded in the experience of the client.   

What do you do when you aren't working, studying or volunteering?

When I am not in school I love doing all sorts of things (when times allows!). I am usually swimming, reading, sewing, exploring new restaurants and coffee shops, hiking or travelling!