Earlier this semester, students in the WSU Applebaum Master of Occupational Therapy program had the opportunity to learn about cerebral palsy and CHARGE syndrome from a 4-year-old.

Karis and her mom Sally were special guests during an interactive learning lab for the OT6300 Pediatric Assessments and Interventions course taught by Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy Kimberly Banfill. The course covers occupation-based therapeutic activities, intervention strategies, documentation skills and discharge planning that promotes client-centered outcome, with a focus on development from birth through young adulthood. 

Program alumna Sarah Holeton, MOT ’19, who is Karis's occupational therapist at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan, presented to OT students on evaluation and intervention related to neuromuscular disorders and tone-related conditions.

“Karis has made lots of progress over the years,” said Holeton. “Sally works very hard with her at home and has seen lots of gains in her daughter’s skills."

Interactive labs like this one align with Wayne State University’s College to Career initiative, which seeks to provide every student with experiential learning opportunities that allow them to encounter the world, gain deeper insights and new perspectives, and prepare for prosperous careers.

"My students and I are very grateful to Karis, Sally and Sarah for graciously allowing us to learn with them,” Banfill said.

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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. The WSU Applebaum Master of Occupational Therapy program application cycle runs from Aug. 1-Nov. 1, with classes starting the following May. Learn more 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.