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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

Kaho Ishizuki MA ’20

Kaho Ishizuki MA ’20

Hometown: Kobe, Japan
Program: Entry-Level Master’s, Class of 2020

What brought you to occupational therapy?
I thought I wanted to be a doctor, but I realized over time that I wanted a career that held more long-term relationships with people and had deeper personal interactions. I took a fun quiz online to see what my ideal job was and I was matched with OT. I fell more and more in love with it as I learned about what it was.

What are some of the occupations you engage in?
I’ve tried almost every sport growing up, but I’ve stuck with dancing, swimming, and skiing/snowboarding for the longest. I love to travel and backpack, and basically anything involved with the outdoors.

Tell us about your favorite memory from the program so far.
The white coat ceremony! Even though it only marked the beginning of my journey to becoming an OT, I felt a huge sense of accomplishment and it really got me motivated and excited for the next few years.

If your childhood had a smell, what would it be?
The smell of my mom’s cooking. I LOVE to eat and my favorite food is whatever my mom makes. Because I have three older brothers, I feel like my mom was constantly cooking to feed us hungry children and the house always smelt like something yummy.

What song can you sing entirely by heart?
1, 2 Step by Ciara. It’s the first CD I ever bought and I remember reading the lyrics card over and over along with the music until I memorized every word by heart. Even the rapping. 😊