Why did you choose occupational therapy as a career?
I have always wanted a career that allows me to help people
improve their health and the quality of their lives. I got curious about OT while working on applications for PT
programs. Once I learned more about the OT profession and its principles and approach,
I was hooked. The focus on function and the consideration of the physical, mental,
emotional and spiritual aspects of a person were especially appealing to me. OT
allows me to be innovative, solve complex problems, and make tangible
differences in the lives of others. With a large and evolving range of OT client
populations and practice environments, a career in OT offers endless
opportunities for professional growth and development.
What is your favourite
thing about CAOT-BC?
I appreciate the advocacy work that CAOT-BC does to advance and
support the profession of OT in BC. CAOT-BC shares opportunities to connect OTs
throughout the province and provides continuing education resources to help further
professional development. In addition, as a student studying out of province, I
love that CAOT-BC provides great electronic communication and resources to help
to me stay up to date and connected with the OT profession in BC.
What do you like
about occupational therapy?
There is so much to love about OT! I love the person-centered
and strengths-based approach of OT, and the focus on helping individuals and
families do what they want and need to do each day. I appreciate how creative,
self directed, and collaborative I get to be. I value that OT allows me to be myself
and encourages me to bring my own unique personality and skills to practice.
What is your personal
philosophy about volunteering and giving back to the profession?
I view volunteering as an essential part of personal development,
community building, and advancing the OT professional practice. To me,
volunteering and giving back to the profession offers a chance to connect with
other OTs and stakeholders, develop new skills, and build on or apply existing
experience and knowledge. I have experienced the strong sense of connection with
community that develops through the shared experiences that arise through volunteering.
In addition, there are many events and opportunities that would not be possible
without the work of volunteers. I believe by giving back to the profession with
our time and knowledge we can facilitate and engage in experiences that allow
for advances in OT practitioners and the profession.
What would you tell
someone who is thinking about becoming an OT?
I’m so excited for you! OT is an incredibly rewarding career
choice that offers many diverse experiences and opportunities to help others. Take
the time to shadow or speak with OTs across different practice settings to
learn what the profession has to offer and determine if it’s the right fit for
you. Be intentional in cultivating a consistent self-care practice. You will be
most effective as an OT student and practitioner when you are able show up with
self-awareness and the capacity to be present with your clients and colleagues.
What do you do when
you aren't studying and volunteering?
Long days trail running or skiing in the mountains with
friends is my favourite way to connect with nature, myself, and with others. I feel
so fortunate to live in BC where there are wild spaces just outside my
doorstep. I try to get out, slow down, and explore as often as I can!
#OT365
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