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
Ph.D. Instructional Design & Technology - Keiser University
Masters of Health Science in Occupational Therapy - University of Florida
Bachelor of Science in Recreational Therapy - University of Florida
Dr. Zeida Gutierrez is an educator, a clinician, a lifelong student, and interested in technology. After graduating with her Bachelor’s in Recreational therapy, she realized she wanted to continue her education and transition into Occupational Therapy. After receiving her Master’s in Occupational therapy, she worked in a variety of clinical settings from inpatient to outpatient rehabilitation and provided treatment for clients with a variety of diagnosis ranging from neurological to orthopedic conditions. Dr. Gutierrez was also a teaching assistant while in graduate school. She enjoyed educating students and clients and their families.
After practicing for approximately 10 years , she sought out opportunities in higher learning. She earned a Ph.D. in Instructional Design & Technology and continue to enjoy helping students become capable and caring clinicians. In addition, she enjoys experimenting and creating using a variety of tools and technologies, be it for work related or personal tasks. Dr. Gutierrez truly enjoys working through a problem or task to find solutions which may require adaptation, modification, or the creation of something new. She is thankful to be surrounded by friends and colleagues who enjoy collaborating, allowing her to consistently be working, thinking, and creating. Dr. Gutierrez also has a dog, two kitties, and a horse that are a great source of comfort and joy to her.
