(Pronouns: she/her)
What year did you start the program?
2020
What are your prior degrees and at which institutions?
Masters of Occupational Therapy: Boston University Bachelors of Science in Therapeutic Studies: Boston University
What was your favorite course in the program?
OH882: Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in the Health Professions
What was your Innovation Project title?
Increasing BIPOC OT Student Self Efficacy, Sense of Belonging, and Leadership Skills: Guidelines to Support the Development of a BIPOC OT Student Mentorship Program
Tell us about your Innovation Project.
My innovation project created guidelines to develop a mentorship program to increase BIPOC occupational therapy students’ self-efficacy, sense of belonging, and leadership skills by centering BIPOC student needs, recruiting culturally responsive mentors, and validating intersectional experiences.
What do you think is special about the Post-Professional OTD program here at the MGH Institute?
The PP-OTD program has created a community of learners passionate about interprofessional education and innovative practices in OT. The program’s leaders are also very supportive and committed to students’ ideas and projects.
Why did you choose to come to this program?
I chose this program because it centered on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in its coursework and within the ethos of the community. I also appreciated that the program was accessible to the working professional; it was appealing that course content would be available on my phone during commutes and lunch breaks.
What are your goals for the future after you graduate?
I intend to continue my leadership roles within the NY State OT association and seek leadership opportunities within my workplace, our national OT association, and perhaps international organizations. In addition, I will continue to promote the importance of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in the OT profession through my role as a clinician, educator, and leader.