Clifford Lyons Jr.
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
Graduated in 2021
Occupational Therapist, Sinai Grace Hospital
Q: Why did you choose Wayne State?
A: After previously attending Oakland Community College, I chose to attend Wayne State University because I wanted to take the next step and attend a university that would push me towards becoming the best student, person, and leader I could be.
Q: What inspired you to pursue Occupational Therapy?
A: My inspiration for pursuing a career in occupational therapy began after having the opportunity to shadow an occupational therapist at Special Tree Neuro Skills Center. Following my shadowing experience, I was able to see first-hand how impactful occupational therapists are on the lives of clients and their families. I instantly knew after the experience that this was the profession for me.
Q: Who was your most memorable instructor?
A: All! I had the pleasure of having the best professors any student could ask for! My professors are the reason I am where I am today.
Q: What was your most challenging class?
A: Pathology, because it requires knowledge from multiple courses to understand the how and why.
Q: Share some reflections about your time on campus:
A: I will always treasure my time as a Wayne State Warrior. The university embraced me with open arms. WSU provided me with opportunities to grow as a student, person and leader. It opened doors I never knew existed and granted me opportunities that I am forever grateful for.
Q: Share a career highlight or summary:
A: After graduating OT school, I was hired as a full time Occupational Therapist at Sinai Grace Hospital. I recently began my third year working at the hospital.
An occupational therapist helps patients engage in everyday activities that are important to them, using a variety of productive and creative activities. Learn more about the WSU Applebaum Occupational Therapy program by attending a college information meeting, held for prospective students at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month.
An anchor in urban health care
The Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is built on more than 100 years of tradition and innovation in the heart of Detroit. We have grown deep roots in our city, harnessing its powerhouse hospital systems and community service organizations as vibrant, real-world training grounds for students, with an ongoing focus on social justice in health care. And our research at all levels – from undergraduates to veteran faculty members – translates into creative solutions for healthier communities.
Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering approximately 350 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 24,000 students.