OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

Graduated in 2005
Therapy Manager, the Medical Team, Livonia

Q: Why did you choose Wayne State? 

A: Because I value diversity. This campus embodies diversity and inclusion in its programs, clubs, extracurriculars and, most importantly, in its people. I think it’s a valuable aspect when it comes to learning. By being exposed to this wide range of different experiences and perspectives, it has helped me become a well-rounded individual. This is something that I have always strived for, and I am proud to say that WSU was instrumental in allowing me to accomplish this goal.

Q: What inspired you to pursue OT?

A: I wanted to become an occupational therapist because I believe that adjusting a person's environment and teaching them necessary skills has a positive impact on their life. I am also passionate about seeing people grow to achieve their full potential no matter what challenges they face. Occupational therapy is the only profession that helps people across the lifespan accomplish their goals through the therapeutic use of daily and meaningful activities.

Q: Who was your most memorable instructor?

A: For me personally, Dr. Doreen Head and Dr. Rosanne DiZazzo-Miller were the most memorable professors. Not only were they entertaining speakers who were interesting to listen to, they were also enthusiastic about the occupational therapy field and they made us laugh and appreciate this profession to the fullest. They truly displayed genuine care and support for students. They played a major role in helping me grow as a person and a professional. These two professors incorporated strategies such as humor and movement into their classroom instruction to help us retain information. 

Q: What was your most challenging class?

A: Gross anatomy was one of the most difficult classes at WSU. To comprehend and retain the vast amount of knowledge in this subject matter required a lot of work, time, energy and discipline. It involved memorizing a large amount of detailed information, such as the names and locations of numerous body parts and structures such as nerves, arteries, veins, muscles, bones, tendons and ligaments. Additionally, my gross anatomy course involved learning through dissection and working with cadavers, which was emotionally and mentally taxing at times.

Q: Share some reflections about your WSU years.

A: It was one of the most exciting and transformative times of my life. I was able to make lifelong friends, discover my passion in life, and had the opportunity to experience a culture that exists only on WSU's campus. WSU provided me with a unique opportunity to delve deep into subjects I was passionate about. I enjoyed the intellectual challenges, the debates in class, and the opportunity to engage with OT professors who were experts in the field. Lastly, I appreciated how the entire faculty in the OT program prepared me for my career. They were instrumental in my personal and professional growth and to this day they have been caring, supportive, and an important part of my endeavors.

Q: In your opinion, what is one of the biggest changes that has occurred in your profession since graduating?

A: While many traditional OT methods are still highly effective, using technology can help with patient engagement. Innovative apps and software, wearable technology, and virtual reality are some of the latest advancements that are revolutionizing the way occupational therapists work. The potential of technology in OT is immense, and it can significantly improve the quality of care for individuals with disabilities to help them reach their full potential and resume their daily tasks.

Q: Tell us a bit about your career.

A: I've been extremely blessed to have worked for many thriving companies and with many skilled clinicians. However, I will never forget the last time before graduation that I walked out of the Applebaum Building. I remember turning around, looking up, and saying to myself, “I will be back to teach here one day.” I will do everything that I can to make this dream a reality.

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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.