Arianna Lopez MA ’23
Hometown: La Habra, CA
Program: Bachelor’s to Master’s, Class of 2023
What brought you to USC?
USC was my dream school ever since I decided I wanted to be an OT. USC has one of the top ranked OT programs in the country, it is close to home, and the school spirit can be felt from a mile away!
What brought you to Occupational Therapy?
My mom is an OT and I grew up watching her do therapy on my grandpa, who had dementia and a stroke. My mom would also sometimes let me practice therapy on my grandpa, and those hands on experiences really sparked my passion for OT.
Describe your favorite occupational therapy course.
I took a brand new course run by the OT department called “OT 299”, AKA “Thrive”. In this class we get Ted-talk style speeches about well-being and how to live a prosperous first year in college. We also have small discussion groups where we reflect on the speeches and give advice to everyone in our groups. I love how I feel so safe and welcome in Thrive class!
If your childhood had a smell, what would it be?
Fresh tamales during the holidays!
What song can you sing entirely by heart?
“Something There” — Beauty and the Beast.
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