(Pronouns: she/her)
What year did you start the program?
2020
What are your prior degrees and at which institutions?
Master of Occupational Therapy: Boston University ‘17 Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Studies: Boston University ‘15
What was your favorite course in the program?
OH 886: Teaching & Learning in the Health Professions
What was your Innovation Project title?
Advocacy for the Unmet Needs of Children and Families Experiencing Homelessness: A Case Example in Massachusetts
Tell us about your Innovation Project.
This project implemented a multi-modal advocacy campaign to advocate for policy change to improve access to early intervention for children and caregivers experiencing homelessness in Massachusetts. This involved increasing the advocacy participation of Massachusetts state legislators and community stakeholders through one-on-one meetings, virtual dissemination tools and the development of an MAOT Advocacy SIG.
What do you think is special about the Post-Professional OTD program here at the MGH Institute?
What I think sets apart the PP-OTD program at the IHP is that it is designed to prepare leaders of the future. The curriculum is focused on current issues and preparing learners to solve unique challenges facing our healthcare landscape. What I also love about the program is that content is delivered in so many ways that are catered towards different learning styles. It’s so thoughtfully designed with the understanding that learners are also likely managing other full-time roles and content is easy to digest while still being relevant.
Why did you choose to come to this program?
I chose to pursue my PP-OTD at the IHP because I believe strongly in the mission of the institution. I value the IHP’s commitment to both interprofessional education and advancing the inclusion of JEDI principles in health professions education. I also chose this program because it was designed to be manageable with a full time job, which was crucial for me.
What are your goals for the future after you graduate?
Where to start! My long-term professional goal is to teach in graduate OT programs. I hope to infuse my passion for advocacy and OT’s role working with underserved communities into entry-level OT education. I also hope to take on more leadership roles within professional practice organizations, as I’ve started to do as Chair of the new MAOT Advocacy SIG. I hope through this role to empower OT practitioner and students to be agents of change within their communities.