(Pronouns: she/her)
What year did you start the program?
2021
What are your prior degrees and at which institutions?
Bachelor of Science in Occupational Studies, Worcester State University
Master of Occupational Therapy, Worcester State University
What was your favorite course in the program?
OH881 Analyzing Influences of Healthcare and Service Delivery
What was your Innovation Project title?
Don’t Wait to Fail: A Parent-OT Advocacy Partnership to Promote Earlier Access to Response to Intervention in Elementary School
Tell us about your Innovation Project.
Don’t Wait to Fail is a teaching and learning project that developed a parent-OT advocacy coalition to empower parents to advocate for earlier access to Response to Intervention (RtI) for elementary aged students by increasing knowledge and self-efficacy. A website was created with a series of eight educational micro-lessons, access to monthly virtual group meet-ups and a community-building social media group.
What do you think is special about the Post-Professional OTD program here at the MGH Institute?
The community created by program director, Sarah McKinnon and all the teaching staff allows students to thrive and grow. The content is designed to make going back to school and working full time a reality and assignments are designed to improve your practice in real time. The opportunity to take classes with SLP-D students is a unique opportunity to learn in an interprofessional environment. The PP-OTD program at MGH IHP has been a life changing opportunity for me and I recommend it to all OTPs looking to further their education!
Why did you choose to come to this program?
I was drawn to the emphasize on work, school and life and the overall accessibility of the program for a working professional. The emphasis on interprofessional collaboration the program offers created an innovative learning environment that set this program apart from others.
What are your goals for the future after you graduate?
After graduation, I plan to chase my passion for education and mentorship by pursuing a career in academia. I also plan to follow my passion for advocating for the needs of children with disabilities through creating my own business. .