Faculty / Staff Resources Student Resources
University of Southern California
University of Southern California
USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
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Education
Education

Emma Wallace MA ’19

Emma Wallace MA ’19

Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Program: Entry-Level Master’s, Class of 2019

What brought you to occupational therapy?
Weirdly enough, a sorority sister in undergrad told me about the occupational therapy program at USC. We were chatting over coffee, and I had told her I didn’t have post-graduate plans, but was interested in mental health and child development. The minute I heard about occupational therapy, it sounded like the perfect fit considering my interests.

What area of practice are you interested in?
I’ve always been passionate about pediatrics! This semester I’ve been excited to take electives in Sensory Integration from professors who directly worked and studied under Jane Ayres. I’m also interested in promoting health and wellness in the pediatric population because of how early healthy routines and habits develop.

Describe your background before coming to occupational therapy.
While I finished my prerequisites for USC’s program, I worked as a behavioral therapist with kids diagnosed with Autism. I still use the principles I learned from ABA when I work with kids in occupational therapy. Because of my background, I already felt more natural developing rapport with kids and their families.

What song can you sing entirely by heart?
Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen and Since You’ve Been Gone by Kelly Clarkson.

If you could visit any time in history, where would you go and why?
If I could, I would visit the Tudor period of England during Henry VIII’s reign. I love the drama and intrigue of all his wives and the break from the Catholic church. I also love the outlandish dresses and makeup.