OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

Graduated in 2012
Academic Fieldwork Coordinator
Eastern Michigan University

Q: Why did you choose WSU?

A: Living in Grosse Pointe, Wayne State always felt like my local university and I was excited to attend. I had worked at the DMC, specifically at RIM, for years and had a strong connection to Detroit. Completing the Occupational Therapy program at Wayne State University was something I was excited and proud to do.

Q: What inspired you to pursue this career?

A: I was working with physical therapists at RIM in a neuro setting and really loved the work. I realized that OT offered a more holistic treatment perspective that was inclusive of mental health. Once I realized being an OT would allow me to explore opportunities to work in behavioral health settings, I knew I wanted to become one.

Q: Who was your most memorable instructor?

A: Without a doubt that would be Dr. Doreen Head. Her classes were the most captivating, as she was so dynamic and passionate about OT in mental health. I enjoyed the stories she would share to help us make sense of the content in a way that brought it to life for us. She had a great use of humor and provided a relaxed environment for us to learn and sharpen our budding skills.

Q: What was your most challenging class?

A: Physiology with Dr. Tracey Bee. The corresponding lab was also incredibly demanding and required ongoing dedication and focus. However, I loved these classes, as they pushed me to my full potential. When I completed that semester, the sense of pride I had was immeasurable.

Q: Share some reflections about your years on campus.

A: My time at Wayne State was exciting and challenging. The OT program pushed me beyond what I thought I was capable of – realizing my full potential. I was given the opportunity to meet the demands of incredibly challenging courses and develop confidence in my own abilities.

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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.