- When did you graduate? What was your major?
- Are you currently in school or working?
- Can you explain Occupational Therapy?
- How did the certificate program impact you? What did you learn through the certificate?
- What are your goals for the future?
- Why do you think students at UGA should take disability classes through IHDD?
- When did you graduate? What was your major?
I graduated from UGA last May with a degree in Exercise and Sport Science and a certificate in Disability Studies.
- Are you currently in school or working?
I am currently an Occupational Therapy student at Augusta University.
- Can you explain Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy is a holistic and client-centered approach to therapy in which an Occupational Therapist assesses and treats a person based on their desired goals to participate in activities that are meaningful to them. These activities may include showering, dressing, cooking a meal, playing with friends, and so much more. Whatever it is a person would like to be able to do more independently is what a therapist addresses in their treatment. I love OT because it provides hope and restoration to people of all ages and ability levels.
- How did the certificate program impact you? What did you learn through the certificate?
The certificate program impacted the way I view and communicate with people with disabilities. I learned that each person has unique gifts that should not be limited by a disability label and that a person should never be defined by their disability. This certificate challenged and shaped the way I view people with disabilities and how to best advocate for and communicate with them. I am so thankful for the many opportunities I had to learn from some of the most passionate and intelligent professors and classmates in the program.
- What are your goals for the future?
My goal for the future is to work with older adults in an inpatient rehabilitation facility. This setting is fast-paced and there is always something new to experience and learn. One of the best things about OT is that there are so many different settings I could work in throughout my career, so my main goal for the future is to help people do the things that are most important to them, no matter the setting or population.
- Why do you think students at UGA should take disability classes through IHDD?
I think it is important for UGA students to take disability classes through IHDD in order to have an understanding of the history, research, advocacy, and future directions surrounding the disability community. I learned so much from discussions with my classmates and professors who had different opinions and life experiences than me. These classes and discussions took me out of my comfort zone (in a great way!) which prepared me for my time in OT school.