Katie Gonzalez OTD ’28

What brought you to occupational therapy?
A combination of caretaking for my grandparents and working as a highschool special education teacher. I saw the intersection of my personal and professional life through occupational meaning and participation, which inspired me to pursue it as a career. I hope to support individuals in all stages of life with what is meaningful to them.

I have my BA in Psychology, MA in Teaching and a special education teaching credential. Prior to starting my E-OTD I worked throughout K-12 public schools in the LA area as a Special Ed. Teacher and case manager.

What are your future plans in occupational therapy, either at USC or in your career?
Neurorehabilitation, Lifestyle Redesign, Hands

What are “green flags” (i.e., pleasant attributes) and “red flags” (i.e., unpleasant attributes) that you notice about other people?
A green flag to me is when someone returns their shopping cart. A red flag is littering.

In a biopic movie about your life, what actor/actress would play you?
In my biopic, I would want America Ferreira to play me. Ugly Betty was my favorite show as a kid.

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