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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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Vicky Alvarez MA ’16

Vicky Alvarez MA ’16

Hometown: San Jose, CA
Program: Entry-Level Master’s, Class of 2016

What brought you to occupational therapy?
After suffering an injury in college, I had to do physical therapy for a few weeks. My sessions took place in a therapy gym, shared with other clients. On my first session, I remember being intrigued by what the therapist and client near me were doing in the kitchen area. I asked my PT about it and she said, “She’s an OT, and she’s helping the client cook.” My immediate thought was, “Cooking in therapy?! That’s awesome!” I started doing more research on OT, and it didn’t take long for me to know it was the profession for me.

What area of practice are you interested in?
Pediatrics and Adult Rehab.

What are some of the occupations you engage in?
Dance is my preferred occupation. When I can, I like to take modern/contemporary and ballet classes in different studios in LA. It is such a great work out and it just makes me feel great mentally, physically, and emotionally. I also enjoy hiking, yoga, traveling, and trying out new food places.

If we opened your fridge, what would we see?
Milk, Greek yogurt, almond butter, eggs, fruit, Trader Joe’s salads, and left over meals.

What do you think is the greatest invention of mankind?
The airplane; it makes visiting far-away loved ones and exploring the world so much easier.