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Jeffrey Palomino MA ’21

What brought you to occupational therapy?
I was introduced to occupational therapy a few years after finishing my undergraduate studies at Loyola Marymount University. During that time, I would spend my weekends providing free guitar lessons for children living with chronic illness. My interactions with these children and their families allowed me to learn about the critical roles that doctors and therapists play in their lives. Through these volunteer opportunities, I eventually crossed paths with a pediatric occupational therapist and instantly knew the direction my life needed to go. I wanted to be part of a profession that allowed me to utilize my interest in science and my passion for art and creativity. Occupational therapy does just that.

What are some of the occupations you engage in?
Playing the guitar, writing and recording music, playing video games, camping, exploring nature, stargazing, hiking, running, playing basketball, napping.

Tell us about your favorite memory from the program so far.
There have been way too many great memories. From classroom shenanigans with my adult rehab team, to the many inter-cohort OT parties and events. My classmates are the best . . . so any memories made with them are the best.

If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
The International Space Station. I want to go “Earthgazing”.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?
Writing an iconic electric guitar riff.

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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 master’s 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 doctorate in occupational therapy (OTD) degree program (cost of attendance) has applied for accreditation and has been granted Preaccreditation 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. The program must complete an on-site evaluation and be granted Accreditation Status before its graduates will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapist administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc.® (NBCOT®).

Professional program graduates are eligible to apply for certification by 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.