When OTD student Shaina Rooney was first introduced to the 3D printer in her Assistive Technology class, “I loved it,” she says. “I saw the potential. 3D printers are new tools that occupational therapists can use to create an endless number of interventions for patients.” For example, they can print orthoses, assistive devices, home improvement
“Telehealth expands the scope of whom therapists can access—and who can access therapy,” says Keith McWilliams, OTD, OTR/L, CBIS, DRS, assistant professor of occupational therapy. When so much of patient care went to telehealth during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, our students’ clinical fieldwork went virtual as well. In a series that Dr.
“It’s a leap of faith into something I’ve never done before. It’s a great opportunity for professional growth.” So says Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) student James Irvine about his role as president of the Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) on USAHS’ San Marcos campus. For many students, participating in a professional association is a
Graduate school is competitive. How can you make sure your application stands out from the rest? We spoke to enrollment advisors (EAs) for our entry-level degree programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology. They offered tips for how prospective students can navigate the application process and set themselves up for success. A Customized
In the summer of 2019, Jose Rafols, OTD, MHSA, OTR/L, program director of the entry-level occupational therapy programs on USAHS’ Miami campus, was looking to hire a new faculty member. Three colleagues sent him the same resume: that of Antonette (“Toni”) Fernandez, DrOT, OTR/L. “When I receive the same resume from three separate people, I
“I love creating a world where you’re free to make mistakes—and people won’t judge you or make fun of you,” says Christina Gonzalez, OTD ’21. She is helping to create this kind of world by facilitating virtual reality experiences for kids who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD). “Virtual reality is a controlled, consistent environment that
Some brands are beloved not only for their excellent products, but also for the way they give back to the community. Ben & Jerry’s, Patagonia, Athleta, and Tom’s of Maine all are certified B Corporations,® a sought-after designation for companies that demonstrate environmental stewardship and social responsibility and that “use business as a force for
At USAHS, we’re proud of our “culture of innovation,” which leverages advancements in technology to prepare students to deliver cutting-edge healthcare services. Our students are learning in ways that promise to make their future peers envious and their future patients healthier. “It’s not just about cool technology,” says Maria Puzziferro, PhD, Dean of Teaching, Learning
“The veteran population is close to my heart,” says Kelsie Fournier, OTD ’21. She is one of two Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) students who chose to explore how working with animals can help veterans recover from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other issues. Dr. Fournier worked with veterans and service dogs, while her classmate
Elizabeth (“Beth”) Fain, EdD, OTR/L, FAOTA, is an occupational therapy educator who earned her Doctor of Education degree in 2014 from USAHS. In April, she was presented with the Roster of Fellows Award, one of the most prestigious honors given by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). “It’s kind of like a lifetime achievement award,”
Simulation-based learning places students in situations where they can put their classroom knowledge into practice. In healthcare, simulation training has been part of curricula since the 18th century; it has been continually evolving as technology advances. This post explores the history of simulation in healthcare, highlights its advantages over other methods of learning, details the
In the aftermath of the 2018 shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, occupational therapists across the state discussed in earnest how they could expand their services in schools to identify and help troubled teens earlier. “I’m a mother and an OT, and I know that our scope of practice includes mental health,”