College: College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences
Major: Occupational Therapy Doctorate
Hometown: Waukee, Iowa
Q: Why did you choose to attend Drake?
A: I was inspired by the enthusiasm of the faculty and the presence of advocacy efforts at the Iowa State Capitol. I knew that Drake would create great opportunities for me to kickstart my career in occupational therapy, and it didn’t hurt to remain close to family and friends in the area during my time in a graduate program.
Q: What is your favorite campus memory?
A: My favorite campus memory is our wheelchair scavenger hunt, where we had the opportunity to explore the Drake campus while using wheelchairs as our mode of ambulation to deepen our understanding of the individuals we may serve as occupational therapists.
Q: How has Drake shaped who you are today?
A: During my time in the Drake Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program, I made lasting connections with friends, future colleagues, and mentors that have guided me in becoming not only a better therapist, but a better person overall. My experiences have deepened my perspectives of the world around me, and I am eager to play a role in creating positive change.
Q: What is next for you after you graduate?
A: I was accepted as the first neonatal occupational therapy fellow at the University of North Carolina (UNC) Hospital. I will begin this 55-week fellowship program this fall, following graduation, and obtain my licensure.
Q: Who have been some of your important mentors during your time at Drake?
A: Dr. Christine Urish and Dr. Rachel Allen-McHugh have played a pivotal part in my acceptance to this fellowship program. Their unwavering support has been essential to my success, and I am sincerely grateful for all they have done for me.
Q: Are you involved in any student organizations, groups, or community service work? Tell us about those experiences.
A: During my time in the Drake OTD program, I had the opportunity to serve as the vice president of the Drake University Student Occupational Therapy Association (DUSOTA), become a member of the occupational therapy student scholastic honor society (Pi Theta Epsilon), and participate in discussions led by our Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity (COTAD) leadership teams.
Q: How has Drake helped you prepare for your future career?
A: My experience at Drake enabled me to gain greater insight into myself as a leader, therapist, and lifelong learner. I am equipped with the skills I need to perform as a quality therapist, committed to evidence-based practice.
Q: Based on your experience, what makes Drake special and sets it apart from other schools?
A: What makes Drake so special is the dedication of the faculty. In the OTD program, it is no question that the faculty love what they do, and they are committed to fostering a positive learning environment and overall experience for their students.