News
Thank you, Occupational Therapists!
Did you know April is National Occupational Therapy Month?
We've had the privilege of interviewing two current Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) students who deeply understand the significance of occupational therapy as their lives have been personally touched by an occupational therapist (OT).
“My brother was born partially deaf and as a result had severe developmental delays. My family and I were so impressed with the way that the OTs treated my brother! His feelings were valued rather than brushed off as being disrespectful. They were patient with him and ultimately helped him to reach the same level of function as his peers.
I decided I wanted to be an OT when I got to observe my brother's Early Intervention visits and see the OT’s holistic approach. To that OT, I want to share a great big thank you! Thank you for treating my brother with kindness and respect. And thank you for opening my eyes to the OT world.
Now, I want to be an OT to provide meaningful, effective care that can change people’s lives the way my brother's OT changed the lives of my family.”
-Grace Smith ‘26 (OTD)
“A few years ago, I broke the third metacarpal of my left hand while whitewater kayaking. It required surgery and a few weeks of OT.
The OT I was placed with was amazing. Her specialty was in hand therapy, and I was amazed by her knowledge and expertise. She had a lasting impact that completely changed my life. She was kind and compassionate, trying her best to provide a swift and comfortable recovery using my left hand. She made therapy fun.
I will always remember that experience. I am forever grateful for that OT introducing me to the profession. I wouldn't be here at Roberts without her!
I followed my heart and found a dynamic career that I know will be continuously fulfilling. Now, once I graduate, I want to work in pediatrics. I would love to find a job in an outpatient clinic to help provide support for children to be functional and successful in their occupations.”
-Jane Matejcik ‘13, 24 (M.Ed, OTD)
We’d also like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to our OTs, staff, and students who work on campus:
Dr. Alex Keuhl
Dr. Erin Ludwig
Dr. Julia Arau
Dr. Kathleen Stoklosa
Dr. Michelle DeRue
Mya Haskins
Paul Fricano
Shae Davis
Success Edioma
Amanda Charleston
There are over 125,000 OTs in the workforce in the United States. Thank you for going all in to make a difference for others!
If you’ve been inspired to consider being an OT, click here to learn more about Roberts’ Doctorate of Occupational Therapy.