Pre-OT Program: Learning and Advocating about Occupational Therapy (OT)
November 6, 2025
by Az
The Pre-OT Pathway Program is an incredible opportunity for undergraduate and recently graduated students who are passionate about pursuing a career in occupational therapy. It’s the perfect stepping stone for anyone curious about what occupational therapy (OT) really is and how to navigate the process of applying to occupational therapy programs.
What makes this program so special is its structure: it meets once a month on a Saturday, bringing together students from different majors and backgrounds. Each session comes with valuable insight, featuring guest speakers (faculty members), interactive discussions, and advice from current students at USC Chan (student leads: Lilia and me!). It’s a welcoming space where curiosity meets community, and every meeting feels both inspiring and motivating.
As one of the student leads in the program, I’ve had the privilege of helping guide students through their Pre-OT journey. This leadership role has been one of the most rewarding experiences during my time as a Student Ambassador at USC Chan. Alongside my fellow second-year OT student, Lilia, I help plan the curriculum, coordinate speakers, and mentor students who are still discovering what occupational therapy truly means. It’s been such a fun experience and something that strengthened my leadership, organization, and communication skills while allowing me to support and inspire the next generation of future OT students.
Being a student lead has also helped me make meaningful connections between what I learn in class and how those lessons apply in the real world. As a second-year OT student, I’m constantly learning new theories, techniques, and clinical skills that I get to share with our Pre-OT students. Each monthly session reminds me why I chose this field and it’s not just about helping people, but about empowering them to live their lives to the fullest. Seeing that same excitement and curiosity in the students I mentor keeps me motivated to keep growing, both personally and professionally.
To learn more about the Pre-OT Pathway or to sign-up, visit https://keck.usc.edu/physician-assistant-program/student-life/usc-pa-pathways/, or reach out to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
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