At a key transition point in their studies, occupational therapy students across all USAHS campuses participate in a meaningful ritual, witnessed by family and friends. The OT pinning ceremony marks the end of the classroom portion of their studies and the beginning of their fieldwork. For Residential MOT and OTD students, this happens in their fourth term, and for Flex, in the seventh term.
A longstanding tradition in OT practice, the pin celebrates the diversity of practice areas, the client-centered nature of our practice and the values of our profession.
“It’s an opportunity for faculty to acknowledge our students’ transition from classroom learning to clinical learning,” says Mary Zadnik, ScD, MEd, OTR/L, director of the entry-level OT programs on Read more
OTD, University of Southern California
MA in Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California
BS in Child and Family Development, San Diego State University
Research Interests
Pediatrics
Accessibility
Sensory integration
School-based mental health
Areas of Expertise
Pediatrics
BACKGROUND
Dr. Erin Schwier is an Associate Professor and the Academic Program Director for the Occupational Therapy Programs on the San Marcos campus She brings more than 15 years of experience working with children with disabilities and their families to her position. She previously worked as a pediatric therapist for multiple school districts and clinics in San Diego County.
Dr. Schwier also currently works as an occupational therapist and educational consultant at Sierra Academy of San Diego, specializing in sensory integration, community integration and the influence on academic performance and social skills.
Dr. Schwier is a frequent presenter on topics related to occupational therapy education, pediatric and mental health practice. She has published articles in professional journals including OT Practice and Disability Journal of Health. She has been a chapter contributor and editor for occupational therapy text books and co-authored Breaking Bread and Nourishing Connections (Brooks Publishing, 2005). Dr. Schwier’s most recent research relates to occupational therapy education and the integration of service learning to support the development of student self-efficacy.
