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
USAHS focuses on providing the best and more appropriate academic and financial aid counseling throughout the admissions process. Whether applying to a first-professional, campus based program or a post-professional distance program, an assigned Enrollment Advisor is available to assist you from application to acceptance.
MOT, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
BS in Psychology, Florida International University
Research Interests
Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis and Treatment
Sensory Processing
Family-Centered Care
Academic Fieldwork Education
Areas of Expertise
Pediatrics
Kristina Paula has been practicing occupational therapy for over four years. She graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She then completed her Master of Occupational Therapy degree at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in 2015. She has continued her education and is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Nova Southeastern University. Her clinical practice and interests are focused on pediatrics, early intervention, autism and early identification of autism.