What was that one ‘aha’ moment that made you think, ‘I want to be an occupational therapist’?
Occupational therapy is one of the profound professions that improves a person's ability to achieve a meaningful active life. This is because the OTs I have encountered in hospitals and during my project placement have always projected the profession as being 'client centred', which resonates well with not just the theory and practical aspect of the course but also my background of integrating every human personal and environmental factor into making lives easier for patients and not just focusing on their illness or limitations.
What are you enjoying most within your occupational therapy course?
I believe every aspect of the course is enjoyable, particularly the classroom interactions during hands-on practicals in home and kitchen assessment areas in the school ward environment. However, my most valued study experience was my first non-clinical placement, which was a project placement. My project educator was a valuable asset in helping me conquer my fears of critical writing and gave useful tips and practical corrections for my project placement assignment. This enabled me to further develop my skills in critical writing, which I can apply in future clinical settings and project assignments.
What would you say to someone considering occupational therapy as a career?
Think less and take a leap! Your non-healthcare background is not a hindrance, I studied Food Science and Technology in my undergraduate degree but being in a health field is a rewarding career. Occupational therapy offers diverse roles and opportunities across the health sectors and beyond. Through my interactions with experts in the field, I have been able to learn about the different amazing roles available for OTs to explore.
What's your ultimate dream OT job?
I have not been able to fully grasp the different fields available for newly qualified OT students, but during the trimester break, I participated in a webinar that focused on integrating occupational therapists into the Occupational Health field. The webinar gave useful insight into why OTs are needed in Occupational Health, not just doctors or nurses. I believe this is the field I might explore upon completion of my studies.
I enjoy the aspect of getting to access useful academic resources and journals streamlined to occupational therapy. This is in contrast to randomly searching on websites because most of these search tools require paid access to journals like the 'British Journal of Occupational Therapy', which is available through RCOT membership. Also, the opportunity to network and build meaningful connections through different forums and attend various webinars also helps in building my CPD.
Yes, I highly recommend that other students join this amazing platform. It gives access to a library full of relevant journals and publications to help with their assignments, projects and practice placement documentation. They also gain access to the latest job vacancies, career advice from experts, resources to support professional development and other benefits.
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