Student Blog

The People Make the Place ⟩
May 11, 2025, by Avery

Beginnings and Endings Community

Moving away for college is scary. In August of 2023, I packed up all my things in 4 suitcases and left to go to school in a brand new state, without knowing a single person there. I was terrified, to say the least.

Before classes started my freshman year, the Chan Division hosted a welcome dinner for my BS-OTD cohort at the USC Health Sciences Campus (HSC). I was anxious about figuring out how to navigate the free USC shuttle from the University Park Campus (UPC) over to HSC on my own. That was until, on my walk to the bus stop, I met a girl as equally confused as I was, coincidentally trying to get to the same dinner. She introduced herself as Pauline, and we quickly discovered we were in the same BS-OTD cohort. Little did I know in that moment that she would become one of my best friends.

Fast forward a week to my first day of class as a freshman at USC, I stepped into OT 250 (greeted by a smiling Dr. Diego Lopez). I awkwardly sat next to Pauline and some other girls whom I met at the welcome dinner. It didn’t take long for us to become fast friends.

Mia and I bonded over our love of weightlifting and running, and today you can often spot us at the gym together. Jordan and I discovered we were taking several of the same GE classes, and actually ended up having 3 out of our 4 classes that first semester together. Ellie and I coincidentally joined the same sorority, and now the two of us are inseparable.

I don’t think I would have made it through my classes thus far without these girls. We’ve spent countless hours camped out in the Leavey Library study rooms, covering the whiteboards with diagrams and study notes. Mia’s insanely detailed Quizlet sets have probably saved my grade more times than I can count. They have seen me at 1 am crying over the amount of terms I have to memorize for an upcoming test, and they are my go-to people for lunch dates, spontaneous beach runs, bus buddies on the shuttle to UPC, and honestly, just the first people I go to vent about anything.

Before coming to USC, I had no idea the impact that the OT community would make on me here.

The value of having deep friendships with people going through essentially the exact same schooling as you is indescribable. Especially in such a unique sequence, such as USC’s BS-OTD program. We each understand what the other is going through, whether it is a tough exam, a breakup, friend drama, missing home, or big life and career decisions.

Growing up in a small town, I had the same friends since I was 5 years old. Coming to college, I was scared that I wouldn’t find people who understood me in the same way. But sure enough, somehow my friends here already feel like family. And the fact that we are only 2 years through a 6-year program together makes me that much more excited for the years to come.

So, if I have any advice, it’s to find your people. Maybe they will be in your academic cohort, a club you join, or someone random you run into at the dining hall. But keep your eyes open, because community is so important, especially in college.

The Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy community here at USC has given so much to me. From my best friends, to professors that make me excited to learn, and peers and coworkers that I adore spending time with. Being an Occupational Therapist requires a special kind of passion for helping others, and being surrounded by people who share that same heart has created a college experience more meaningful than I ever could’ve imagined.

As I wrap up my last finals of my Sophomore year of college, I reflect on the impact this community has had on me over the past two years, and I am eternally grateful.

So if you are moving away from home for the first time, or maybe to a new area for grad school, my wish for you is to find your people. And if you are coming to USC, know that the Chan OSOT community will always have your back!

 

 

⋯

Grad School: Growth, Gratitude, and Group C ⟩
May 1, 2025, by Dana

Beginnings and Endings Community Fieldwork

From foundational courses, to Pediatrics, to Geriatrics, to Adult Physical Rehabilitation, and lastly Mental Health, I have gone through all didactic courses and the 4 immersions of the E-OTD Program! Throughout the last 1.5 years, I have gained so much knowledge and hands-on experience that prepared me to take on the next part of my OT journey. The interactions that I have had the privilege to make in my Level I Fieldwork experiences with individuals from across the lifespan were so inspirational because not a single encounter was the same. I learned from their stories and how they make meaning from it. As OTs, we actively listen to our clients’ needs when other healthcare professionals don’t have the time to, which makes this profession more meaningful in the sense that we get a full scope of people’s narratives. The fieldwork sites, immersions, and classes not only focus on what to do with clients, but they really encompass how we develop our time with the clients that is meaningful and worthwhile to their goals and overall quality of life.

So, from the jitters of heading into my first Level I Fieldwork to now about to start a full-time Level II Fieldwork experience with my own caseload by the end of it, it’s been a whole whirlwind of emotions, but the amount of support and guidance from professors, teaching aides, and other students have been immeasurable. When there were times of doubt and disappointment, the community at USC Chan provided one another reassurance and motivation to continue because we believe in each other’s successes. As I look ahead to my Level II Fieldwork, I carry with me the lessons, values, and unwavering support that shaped this journey so far. The E-OTD program has not only equipped me with the clinical skills needed to be an effective occupational therapist—it has also deepened my empathy, strengthened my resilience, and affirmed my commitment to advocating for and empowering others. I’m incredibly grateful for every challenge, every connection, and every moment that has brought me to this point.

Lastly, getting through all these immersions and classes was thanks to the best group I could ask for. Because USC is a larger program, when we start the E-OTD, we are split into 4 groups - A, B, C, and D. We still have the larger network, but we really get to know our smaller group. So to my group, Group C, throughout our time together, we have gone through the highs and lows of each course, and despite all of it, we were there to support one another, making the process less lonely. We tried to understand each other and bounced ideas that added to our learning and humility. We voiced our opinions and advocate for each other as well as the profession as a whole because at the core of it, we unanimously want to spread what OT is and provide meaningful services to all populations. Because of this group and everyone’s unique experiences, I gained so much more than knowledge. I learned what it’s like to work as a team and how collaboration plays a strong role in building meaningful relationships, not just between colleagues, but also to my future clients. Additionally, I learned how developing friendships as an adult is not as daunting as I initially thought it was. Grateful is an understatement, but thank you, Group C. Let’s rock in our Level IIs!

⋯

Occupational Therapy, Entrepreneurship, and a Conversation with Dr. Esther Bae ⟩
April 10, 2025, by Avery

Community Diversity What are OS/OT?

Occupational therapy (OT) is a field dedicated to helping people live fuller, more independent lives. OT’s are often found in clinics, schools, or hospitals. But how can the field of Occupational Therapy blend with entrepreneurship? I recently had the opportunity to sit down and talk with Dr. Esther Bae, an Occupational Therapist, entrepreneur, and business owner, about just that.

As someone passionate about both OT and business, I’m exploring how these two worlds intersect. At USC, I’m considering an Entrepreneurship minor alongside my OT major, and I am currently taking the course BAEP 450: The Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship, to learn how to turn my ideas into real-world impact.

Dr. Bae earned her OTD degree right here from USC. She is an entrepreneur who has merged her passions for accessibility, beauty, and social impact into a thriving career. Esther is the co-founder of Dwelle Collaborative (now Qualified), the first nonprofit to provide occupational therapy services to survivors of sex trafficking, empowering them through meaningful employment. Additionally, she founded a consulting business, which she now focuses on, called Modified Independent, which focuses on accessibility and inclusive beauty, helping brands develop more adaptive and user-friendly products and services. Dr. Bae has always had a passion for makeup and beauty, and she was able to combine her two passions through consulting and entrepreneurship.

One of Dr. Bae’s most notable collaborations through her company Modified Independent has been with Selena Gomez’s company Rare Beauty, where she played a key role in developing accessible packaging for people with disabilities and user-friendly designs for their products, specifically on their Find Comfort line. By working closely with the brand, she ensured that beauty products could be more inclusive, demonstrating how OT principles can be applied in industries beyond healthcare.

Additionally, she has been highlighted nationally by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)  for her accomplishments as an entrepreneur in the field.

Dr. Bae shared some advice with me as I embark on my OT journey. One of the most impactful things she told me was:

“There is no one right way to go about things in your career. What’s important is that you always keep going. I have experienced so many setbacks, but sitting here talking to you, I can see how my journey has come together. You have such a vast future ahead; don’t get caught up in the things that go wrong. Pivot and keep going”.

Her words really stuck with me—not just as encouragement, but as a reminder that the path forward doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. As someone who is inspired by both occupational therapy and entrepreneurship, her message reinforced that forging your own path means embracing uncertainty and setbacks as part of the process. Whether in healthcare or in business, growth often happens in the pivots. As I move forward in this journey, I’ll carry her wisdom with me: to trust the process, stay open to change, and keep showing up; even when things don’t go as planned.

Dr. Bae’s story is a testament to the limitless possibilities within occupational therapy. Whether through consulting, nonprofit work, or product development, OTs have the potential to innovate and create meaningful change. Her journey inspires me as I explore my own aspirations in OT and entrepreneurship, reminding me that success is about persistence, relationships, and the willingness to adapt.

For anyone considering an entrepreneurial path in OT, Dr. Bae’s story proves that it’s possible to build a career that aligns with your passions while making a meaningful impact. The key is to start with what you have, embrace setbacks as opportunities to pivot, and never stop moving forward.

⋯

Connecting, growing, and navigating new beginnings ⟩
April 9, 2025, by Tanya

Beginnings and Endings Community International Living in LA

At the start of this Post-Professional Master’s of Occupational Therapy (PP-MA) program, I often wondered if I would truly make the most of the Person-Environment-Occupation fit I was hoping for. Fast forward to now, and we are nearing the end of the Spring semester, and I can confidently say that this journey has been a transformative one.

Stepping into the unknown with the PP-MA program felt like embarking on an adventure, one filled with excitement, fear, and anticipation all at once. But maybe that is the point. The discomfort, the uncertainty, the moments of doubt - these are not barriers but catalysts, pushing me toward experiences I never imagined for myself. Being away from home and out of my comfort zone has made me confront and learn new things about myself.  It has opened my eyes to new perspectives, strengths, and vulnerabilities. This journey has been more than just an academic pursuit; it has been a quiet, steady unveiling of self. A reminder that growth often happens in spaces where comfort does not exist.

Adjusting to my new role as a student was something I had to learn to embrace, and now, I have grown to enjoy every moment of it. The routine of readings, assignments, quizzes, and presentations no longer feels foreign or overwhelming. They have become a regular part of my academic life, and I found myself discovering new knowledge that bridges the gaps in my understanding - knowledge that I am looking forward to apply when I return back into practice.

As I continue my studies, I am constantly amazed by the vast body of knowledge in occupational therapy and the humbling realization of how little I know. We often get caught up in treating clients, but I have learned to question the evidence behind our practices and truly reflect on whether we are as evidence-based as we think. It will be a lie to say that all has been smooth sailing. There are moments when I miss my previous occupation as a working adult. As I pursue the Sensory Processing/Sensory Integration Graduate Certificate and begin managing my caseload at the clinic, I cannot help but feel a sense of nostalgia for the certainty and routine of my previous career. Yet, in these moments of uncertainty, I realize how much I have grown and how much I still have to learn.

Being far from home, with a 15-hour time difference, made staying connected with family and friends challenging. Technology helped bridge the gap, but time zone differences meant missed calls, delayed responses, and moments when I simply could not share my experiences in real-time. No matter how much I valued those relationships, there was an inevitable disconnect - a gap between my world here and the one I left behind. What truly kept me grounded in this new chapter of my life was my social environment - my classmates and housemates. They became more than just people I studied or lived with; they were my biggest source of support, encouragement, and comfort. They turned what could have been a lonely experience into one of growth, shared memories, and unexpected friendships.

One of the greatest surprises was discovering how my classmates, despite our differences, fit together like a puzzle. We came from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and personalities - some were quiet and introspective, others loud and full of energy, and some a mix of both. But somehow, when brought together, we complemented and strengthened each other.

It was through them that I learned and grew the most, not just as a student, but as an individual. They challenged my perspectives, encouraged me when things got tough, and made even the most stressful moments more bearable. Whether it was discussion, bouncing around ideas, or gathering for a meal, there were always ways to uplift each other with both encouragement and laughter. I have learned simple phrases in Korean, Spanish, and Tagalog while also refining my Mandarin speaking abilities.

Beyond academics, they became my family away from home. We explored new places in LA, introduced each other to foods from our cultures, and even navigated unforeseen situations together — like the recent fires. There was something deeply reassuring about knowing that no matter what, I had people to turn to.

Stepping into a new environment can feel daunting, but the connections you build can define the experience. Here are some lessons I’ve discovered along the way.

1. Be open to people & experiences
It is easy to stick to what is familiar, but real growth happens when you open yourself up to new friendships and different ways of thinking. The people around you have so much to offer - culturally, intellectually, and personally — if you take the time to connect.

2. Support goes both ways
Just as much as you seek support from others, be there for them too. A strong support system is built on mutual encouragement, whether it is celebrating small wins, helping each other through tough times, or simply being a good listener.

3. Embrace differences
Living and studying with people from different backgrounds means encountering different habits, beliefs, and perspectives. Instead of seeing these as challenges, view them as opportunities to grow and expand your understanding of the world.

4. Communicate & set boundaries
Especially in shared living situations, setting expectations early helps prevent misunderstandings. Respect each other’s space, communicate openly, and do not be afraid to address small issues before they turn into bigger problems.

5. Find joy in the little moments
Some of the best memories are not made in big, planned events, but in the little things — conversations in the kitchen, impromptu outings, and moments of laughter after long days. Appreciate these, because they often turn out to be the most meaningful.

Looking back, I realize that my classmates were not just part of my academic journey, they were an integral part of my experience as a whole. They made a foreign place feel familiar, turned challenges into shared struggles, and celebrated victories together.

If you find yourself in a new program or environment, take the time to build a support system around you. Be open to new friendships, create a space where everyone feels valued, and be willing to step out of your comfort zone. Some of the people you meet might just become more than classmates or housemates - they could become lifelong friends and, in many ways, family.

 

⋯

What Kind of OT Do You Want to Be? ⟩
April 9, 2025, by Mason

Classes

Everyone goes to OT school for different reasons. Everyone has a unique and passionate dream for their future that drives them to work hard. I think one of my favorite parts about being a USC Chan Student Ambassador is hearing just that: having the opportunity to interact with prospective students and to listen to their unique dreams and goals of becoming future clinicians. No one occupational therapist is alike, and one of the coolest things about meeting a prospective OT student, current OT student, or practicing occupational therapist is that you never know what kind of OT they will be. What makes our profession so fascinating and so impactful is our ability to flexibly adapt to serve a never-ending variety of patient populations. What I love most about occupational therapy is that we never stop asking ourselves where our profession should end; instead, we ask ourselves how we can grow, how we can learn, and how we can increasingly serve those around us.

So, when facing the never-ending horizon of a holistic, flexible, and growing healthcare profession, one of the biggest challenges and fears of a current OT student is trying to figure out what kind of OT they want to be. I mean, come on, how many other professions can you name that could simultaneously teach handwriting skills to children in rural areas, rehabilitate hand injuries in an acute burn unit, support babies’ feeding skills in the NICU, develop lifestyle changes to manage chronic diabetes, train self-dressing skills to adults after a spinal cord injury, and so on, and so forth. Let’s just say, when trying to pick a specialty area…it gets complicated.

So, how do you navigate it? Well, to start, what has always helped me has been to embrace every semester, every class, every fieldwork, and every opportunity with an open mind. USC Chan’s OT program was cultivated by OTs working across dozens of unique and diverse specialties. So, rather than have students engage solely in the standards and learn in an academic program focused on just the basics, USC Chan enables students to also learn about the “why not’s”. Our 4 key practice immersions (adult physical rehabilitation, pediatrics, mental health, and geriatrics) teach students the most fundamental skills of how to be an OT across our most historic practice settings. But rather than stop just there, each semester, students take additional classes that begin to teach them to branch out beyond the basic levels of their education. These classes offer students an opportunity to see inside the window of more unique specialty areas of OT (such as preventative medicine, acute care, and non-traditional mental health), and importantly, give them the ability, if they choose, to take hold of their education and explore more niche topics further.

As students enter the second semester of their second year in the program, they gain the opportunity to take elective classes through the division. These classes are often taught by adjunct specialists and experts in their fields and allow students to experiment with new speciality areas they may be interested in. This semester, I had the opportunity to take an elective class that explores the role of occupational therapy in comprehensive adult neuro-rehabilitation, which involves working with patients experiencing spinal cord injuries, stroke, and traumatic brain injuries. I took the class because throughout the program, I had begun to have a real interest in these patient populations and wanted to explore the role of OT in supporting them.

Choosing what kind of OT you want to be is no easy task, and I would bet that even after finishing OT school, many new graduates still aren’t completely sure. But I would argue that when looking across OT programs, make sure to find a program that supports your curiosities and gives you the opportunities to explore them. I think finding learning opportunities after college can be a bit more challenging, so make sure to soak up all the knowledge and information while you can!

That’s all for now, and Fight On!

⋯