Essie Lyn OTD ’26

What are some of the occupations you engage in?
I engage in baking; at the beginning of 2020, I found a love for decorating cakes, cake pops, and cupcakes for special events and fun. I enjoy going to the movie theaters and watching new movies that have just been released with my family. I want different types of physical activity like Pilates, running, hiking, and weight lifting.

If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
If I could travel anywhere, it would be to Italy. I would love to spend two months in Europe soaking in the beautiful views, food, desserts, and architecture.

How do you plan to use OT in the future?
I plan to use Occupational Therapy (OT) in the future to promote independence, improve daily living skills, and enhance overall well-being whether for myself, loved ones, work settings or in a broader community setting.



If you had your own late night talk show, who would you invite as your first guest?
If I had my late-night talk show, I would have loved to invite Gina Rodriguez to be my first guest. Gina Rodriguez is an actress, producer, and activist for the Latino community and has advocated for women’s rights, education, diversity on television programs, and social justice. She would be a great advocate to bring to my talk show to talk about her own experiences as a woman and Latina actor.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
The best advice that has truly shaped my journey was from my grandma telling me, “Push through any challenges that come your way and don’t give up.” This wisdom stuck with me through tough times when I felt like quitting, but I reminded myself to embrace the struggle and challenge myself instead. It’s amazing how a little encouragement can ignite the strength within us! So, when life gets tough, remember that pushing through can lead to incredible growth!

⋯

USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy

1540 Alcazar Street, CHP 133, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9003

ACOTE accreditation | NBCOT certification

The USC entry-level doctorate in occupational therapy (OTD) degree program (cost of attendance) is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education® (ACOTE®) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). The USC entry-level master’s degree program (cost of attendance) is in Accreditation–Inactive status by ACOTE®. View our program’s ACOTE® standards public data. ACOTE® c/o the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc.®, 7501 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 510E, Bethesda, MD 20814, (301) 652-AOTA, www.acoteonline.org.

Professional program graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapist administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc.® (NBCOT®), nbcot.org. Program results from the NBCOT can be found online at www.nbcot.org/Educators-Folder/SchoolPerformance.