Student Blog
Beginnings and Endings

Occupational Therapy- A Family Affair ⟩
January 21, 2026, by Trinity

Beginnings and Endings Community

At the beginning of the year and just following time with my family this holiday season, I am prompted to reflect on how I got here, now a second year in the occupational therapy doctorate program. When looking back, I started to realize that I have not been on this journey alone. There have been so many people in my corner, and I wanted to take this moment to thank them.

I got to thinking about this topic because of a photo my brother sent me recently:

The caption reads “new pincer grasp practice just dropped,” and he is holding a fork between his thumb and index finger in a traditional pincer grasp. My brother is not an occupational therapist, but he has endured countless nerdy monologues about different grasps and developmental milestones from me. Now, he will always point out when he is using a particular grasp because he knows it is what I study. As we develop as occupational therapy students, we also share what we know with those around us, including our loved ones, which is a method of advocacy in itself.

Not only has my family been subject to lecture-like soliloquies on the ins and outs of occupational therapy, but they have also been my willing guinea pigs as I trial new interventions on them. All members of my family from my smallest cousin to my great grandmother have helped me try some new occupational therapy tricks.

My grandma who was 98 years old at the time of this photo tried my balloon batting activity. I am so grateful for her.

One of the defining features of occupational therapy is the importance it holds for a client’s individual values. In fact, we may walk the client through values checklists in sessions, and as a student, I have participated in the checklist multiple times. For me, family always comes out as one of the most important values. I am grateful for my family and all they have taught me.

I have learned that family is at the heart of occupational therapy. Whether that be a spouse who has taken on the role of care partner, a parent who is worried about their child’s development,  a child who is transitioning their parent to a new living situation, or a friend who has been an active listener throughout challenges, family is almost always involved in some way. We have the responsibility to care for our clients, but we can’t forget about the people who love and care for our clients as well. As we appreciate the people who have helped us along the way, it can help us remember to acknowledge the efforts of a client’s family.

Wherever you are on your OT journey, whether you are nearing the beginning or the end, please do not forget the people who have helped you get there. They will be the ones cheering for you when you graduate, when you get your first job, and at every little moment in between. If you feel that you have not found those people yet, I guarantee you that you can find them at USC. The faculty and students here have become my family. It is with them, and with my family at home, that this journey has been possible for me. I invite you to say thank you to those who listened to you and supported you, to those who learned what occupational therapy is because you are pursuing it, those who are on this journey alongside you! We don’t do it alone, and what a blessing that is!

 

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Finding My “Just Right” at USC Chan ⟩
November 13, 2025, by Angel

Beginnings and Endings Classes Community International School/Life Balance

As occupational therapists, we often talk about finding the “just right challenge.”

It’s one of those guiding OT principles that stays with you long after you leave the classroom or the clinic—that perfect balance between too hard and too easy. It’s the sweet spot where growth happens: not so high that it leads to frustration, and not so low that it leads to boredom or disengagement.

For three years, I lived by that phrase as a pediatric occupational therapist back in the Philippines. Every session, every activity, every goal I created for my kids was built around that idea. I wanted to make sure each child was supported just right—challenged to reach a little higher, yet still confident and motivated to keep going.

Back then, “just right” was something I applied to my clients. I had always reserved it for my clients, never considering my own journey.

When I entered USC Chan three months ago, I was filled with excitement, anticipation, and a little bit of fear. I had dreamed about being part of this community for so long—a place known for excellence, compassion, and innovation in occupational therapy. I was ready to learn, to grow, and to experience what it truly means to be part of the Chan family.

But as the days turned into weeks, I was struck by just how remarkable all my classmates are. In group discussions and reflections, they shared thoughtful insights about OT, ideas that made me pause and think, “How did they come up with that?” Beyond their knowledge, I was inspired by their professional experiences, their expertise in different areas of OT back in their home countries, and their achievements, including international programs like conferences and summer exchanges abroad. Each conversation opened new perspectives, and I often found myself quietly listening, trying to absorb as much as I could.

Soon, that admiration began to turn into self-doubt.

I started to feel small, even a little insecure. I questioned my abilities and wondered if I truly belonged in a room full of such talented and articulate people. I thought, Maybe I’m not as smart. Maybe I don’t have as much to contribute.

There were moments when I stayed quiet, not because I had nothing to say, but because I doubted whether my thoughts were good enough. I began to question myself, my knowledge, my experience, and even my place here.

Then, a quiet realization began to settle in the back of my mind.

This feeling—a mix of challenge and discomfort—was familiar. I had seen it before, not in myself, but in my clients: the look of frustration when a task felt too hard, the hesitation when they weren’t sure they could succeed, and the quiet pride when they finally did something they couldn’t do before.

I realized I was living my own just right challenge.

And in adulthood, that balance can feel even more delicate. Too much challenge can lead to anxiety, burnout, or even trauma. Too little, and we risk staying in places that feel safe but stagnant.

Being a student again after years of practice is not easy. You’re reminded that growth means starting over—being open, curious, and humble enough to say, “I don’t know, but I’m willing to learn.”

Those moments of doubt weren’t signs of failure; they were signs of stretching. Maybe I felt “not enough” because I was being pushed in the best possible way: challenged, but not defeated.

I came here not to prove I’m the best, but to become better. And growth doesn’t happen in comfort. It happens when you’re surrounded by people who inspire you to think differently, reflect deeper, and reach higher.

At Chan, I’ve learned that it’s okay to not have all the answers. It’s okay to listen more than you speak. It’s okay to be in a season of learning, because that’s exactly what being a student is about.

In occupational therapy, we remind our clients and their families to trust the process. Progress doesn’t happen overnight; it unfolds through small, meaningful steps. Maybe we, as students and future occupational therapists, need to extend that same grace to ourselves—taking things one step at a time, one just right challenge at a time.

Looking back on my first few months at USC Chan, I can see how much I’ve grown, not just in knowledge, but in perspective. I’ve learned to value moments of discomfort because they mean I’m learning. I’ve learned to celebrate small wins: understanding a difficult concept, sharing an idea in class, connecting with peers from all over the world who share the same passion for OT. I’ve learned that being surrounded by people who are “better” in some ways isn’t something to fear, it’s something to celebrate. It means I’m in the right place to learn.

More importantly, I’ve learned to extend the same compassion to myself that I always gave to my clients.

Before leaving for USC, one of my patient’s mother shared a photo of me and her son in a post online as I said my goodbyes. Her words reminded me why I do what I do, and what it truly means to meet someone at their “just right” level. It’s not only about helping someone achieve their therapy goals; it’s about understanding their story, celebrating small victories, and walking beside them through both struggle and success.

So now, whenever that familiar sense of self-doubt creeps in, I tell myself: This is my just right. This is where I’m supposed to be—learning, growing, and embracing both the challenges and the joys that come with this journey.

Because life, like therapy, isn’t about being perfect. It’s about finding that balance—that meaningful middle ground—where growth happens.

And for us as adults, that “just right” isn’t just about skill: it’s about readiness to learn, a sense of safety in trying new things, and having the courage to stretch without snapping. It’s about honoring our limits while still leaning into discomfort, trusting that growth doesn’t require perfection—only presence and persistence.

And here at USC Chan, I’m learning that sometimes, being in that just right space is exactly what I need.

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Bridging Cultures, Building Futures: Our PP-MA Journey ⟩
October 2, 2025, by Global Initiatives Team

Beginnings and Endings Classes Community Diversity Getting Involved Housing and Transportation International Living in LA School/Life Balance What are OS/OT?

Hi everyone! We’re Angel and Haemin, international students in the 2025-2026 Post-Professional Master’s (PP-MA) program at USC. Coming from the Philippines and South Korea, we are starting this new chapter in Los Angeles! We’re excited to meet new people, explore new places, and grow together as OTs.

Angel’s Journey

My name is Angel, a pure-blooded Filipina and current PP-MA student for 2025–2026. I earned my OT degree in the Philippines and worked as a pediatric occupational therapist for three years—a role that brought me so much joy working with children and their families. In 2023, I got married, and by 2024 I had moved to the U.S. to be with my husband, first living in Chicago before deciding to continue my OT journey here in LA.

When I began exploring further studies, USC stood out immediately. Its Post-Professional MA is one of the few programs in the U.S. that can be completed in just one year, allowing internationally trained OTs like me to deepen our skills, discover new ideas, and connect with people from around the world—all while returning to practice sooner. I also heard wonderful feedback from colleagues who studied here, describing supportive faculty, a vibrant community, and an environment that pushes you to grow. Most of all, I was inspired by USC Chan’s mission to optimize people’s engagement in the ordinary and extraordinary activities of life—a statement that perfectly reflects why I chose OT in the first place.

Life in Los Angeles has been a big adjustment after Chicago and the Philippines—new city, new culture, and no familiar faces. At first, it was daunting, but having my husband’s support made the transition easier. Together, we’re slowly building our rhythm, exploring neighborhoods, and enjoying small routines that make LA feel like home. Lately, we’ve started visiting local cafés for matcha and coffee, and Little Tokyo has quickly become a go-to spot for food and culture.

So far, the PP-MA program has been both exciting and humbling. One of my favorite courses is Foundations in Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, where we explore and challenge diverse perspectives on both OS and OT. Because our cohort includes students from many different countries, I have gained a deeper understanding of how culture and society influence a person’s occupations. I have also come to appreciate the importance of language in our work as occupational therapists when connecting with patients.

What I value most about this program is how it encourages us to think critically about OT while equipping us with practical tools to grow as clinicians and leaders. It’s not just about earning a degree—it’s about shaping how we want to contribute to the future of the profession.

Looking ahead, I see this year at USC as a stepping stone. My immediate goal is to gain licensure in the U.S. so I can continue serving people in healthcare. Beyond that, I hope to bridge what I learn here with my roots in the Philippines, finding ways to give back and strengthen OT globally.

Haemin’s Journey

My name is Haemin, and, like Angel, I’m a PP-MA student, class of 2026. I graduated from my home university in South Korea this year and moved to LA to attend USC Chan’s Master’s program. Being a PP-MA OT student at USC has been one of the most exciting chapters in my life. When I arrived in LA to start my journey, I had mixed feelings of both excitement and being overwhelmed. I moved into a new apartment, met new people and classmates, and tried to make a new daily routine. Even though there were a lot of things to take in on my own, I found myself becoming more independent and confident.

Back in 2022, I joined the Summer Occupational Therapy Immersion (SOTI) program as an exchange student. It was such a memorable time to interact with people from all over the world with warm and supportive instructors. I loved exploring various OT fields through guest lectures and field trips, and it made me want to reflect more on the kind of OT I’d like to become. These experiences inspired me to deepen and broaden my own view of occupational therapy and to find the areas of practice that truly align with my interests and passions. Finding that USC provides strong support and resources to help international students achieve these goals gave me the confidence to come here for my master’s program.

Even though I have experience of living in the US before, moving to LA for graduate school was still a new adventure. I set up a new apartment and established daily routines like meal prep, errands, and transportation to balance my work and studies. It took time to adapt to a new environment, but I was able to figure it out thanks to so much support from my family, friends, and professors at USC Chan. As I figure out step by step, I find myself having done so many things, which makes me feel confident and mature 😊

One of the best parts of the PP-MA program is having classmates from all over the world. We share our OT experiences and cultures from our home countries, which makes every discussion richer and exciting. The atmosphere is so friendly and supportive, and the Global Initiatives team always makes me and other international students feel welcomed and connected. Working as a GI team member, I’m supporting students who want to celebrate their meaningful holidays, which is especially valuable in that I can learn about important cultural meanings from my classmates.

As for classes, Foundations of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy has been my favorite! At first, OS felt a bit philosophical and abstract, but it helped me see what occupation truly means and what the OT’s role is from a global perspective. Having discussions with international classmates adds so much fun and depth 😊

Even though we may have grown up in different countries and started OT in different ways, the PP-MA program at USC has brought us together. We’re learning, growing, and cheering each other on as we chase our own unique dreams as future OTs.

Outside the classroom, I love spending time at Hoose Library, which has a Harry Potter vibe. It’s so aesthetic and makes me focus on studying better.

Preparing for what’s next, one of my biggest goals during this program is earning the Sensory Integration (SI) certificate, which will be valuable for working with children. After graduation, I hope to continue working in pediatrics, especially with children and adults with ASD, and to expand into community-based practice. I’m excited to face my future clients with a richer perspective on occupation by everything I learned and grew from my time at USC.

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Becoming in the Space Between: Navigating Life After Undergrad ⟩
June 23, 2025, by Tobechi

Beginnings and Endings

When I graduated with my undergraduate degree in Health Science from California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) in 2021, I thought I had my next steps all figured out. The plan was to take the MCAT, apply to medical school, and begin the long but fulfilling journey toward becoming a doctor. But somewhere along the way, I realized that path wasn’t mine. Letting go of that original plan was both a relief and a fear I hadn’t prepared for. The relief came from listening to my intuition. Something inside me knew medicine, in that traditional sense, wasn’t my calling. But the fear? That came from everything else — the pressure of the unknown, the sudden lack of direction, and the uncomfortable silence that replaced the structure I sought out in my day-to-day life.

Before I discovered occupational therapy, I went through a season of feeling lost. I was constantly questioning myself: What am I doing? Where am I going? Did I just waste all this time preparing for a future I no longer want? This didn’t just affect me, but my family as well. My parents had a hard time understanding what was happening. They were worried, confused, and, at times, frustrated. At the time, I saw their reaction as pressure, but in hindsight, I know it came from a place of love — and fear. When someone you care about is stuck in limbo, it’s natural to want answers, even if they aren’t ready to give them. Being on that side of things — feeling uncertain and misunderstood, gave me a deeper understanding of how hard it can be for others to sit with someone else’s unknown. Sometimes fear can lead to urgency, and the people closest to you might struggle to support you when they don’t have control. That experience gave me a new perspective on how complex it can get trying to navigate supporting someone when it can look like there are no clear answers.

I then discovered occupational therapy after completing my first degree, thanks to a family member of mine who was pursuing a PhD in Occupational Science here at USC. That initial exposure led me to explore occupational therapy. The more I learned, the more I felt drawn to the profession. As I became more drawn to OT, I started to feel some relief wash over me. But the next obstacle I faced after finally deciding what I wanted to do was having the courage to share this with my family. At the end of the day, this is my truth — and it always will be. However, opening up about the instability I felt after graduation and presenting a new, unfamiliar plan to my parents made me incredibly anxious. It wasn’t a straightforward path to helping them understand that I was choosing a promising career — one they hadn’t heard of before — but eventually, I got to a place where I could reassure them that I was going to be more than okay.

A quote that really resonates with me when I think about this period of my life comes from Michelle Obama’s Becoming. She writes:

“Now I think it’s one of the most useless questions an adult can ask a child — What do you want to be when you grow up? As if growing up is finite. As if at some point you become something and that’s the end.” 
— Michelle Obama, Becoming (2018)

This quote reminds me that there’s no final version of me I must hurry towards. Looking back, I realize that post-grad can be one of the most pivotal times in a person’s life — not just for making career moves, but for becoming. It’s the space between who you were and who you’re growing into. And while that space can feel empty, slow, and terrifying, it can also be the beginning of deep clarity, alignment, and growth. That’s something I now give myself permission to keep doing, even as I grow in my identity as an OT student and future clinician.

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14 days of Summer: An OTD Student’s Summer before Summer Semester ⟩
June 3, 2025, by Az

Beginnings and Endings

Hi! I’m Az and I am a current E-OTD student. To preface this post, I would like to tell y’all about my favorite occupations outside of school. My favorite occupations include hiking, weightlifting, camping, reading, and building model kits and Legos. I am also a huge fan of Star Wars and would like to build the giant Lego Millenium Falcon in the future!

After a whirlwind of finals and finishing up my second semester, I had exactly 14 days to breathe. No studying. No driving in LA traffic. No due dates. Just a quiet 14 days of relaxation and nothing. In this post, I’m going to focus on what I did in my 14 days of summer break.

Right after finals, I drove with my friend Kat to Sacramento from LA. During our drive, I realized that Kat and I did not get the chance to spend time together given our busy schedule and us being in a different cohort. Spending time with her in the car for 6 hours was full of fun conversations and sing-alongs. We got to make a playlist called “A-Z with Az” for the car ride. This playlist is organized alphabetically by song titles.

The first 4 days of my 14 days of Summer was with my friend and spending time up in Northern California. The last time we saw each other was about a year ago and seeing them again in person was such a wonderful experience. While planning for this trip, I realized that both Sam and I love outdoor activities and being one with nature. So, we decided to go camping and unplug from the world. Our campsite is known for its views of the Golden Gate Bridge and The Bay. After getting to the campsite, we unpacked our camping gear and explored a trail nearby. During our walk, we got caught up in each other’s life and was able to walk around together just like the old days.

Our campsite

View of The Golden Gate Bridge

For the rest of my 10 days of break, I recently downloaded an app called StoryGraph where it tracks and focuses on an individual’s reading statistics. Over break, I was able to disconnect from social media and regain my love for reading. I read a total of four books over the course of 6 days and I honestly forgot about how much I loved reading until I got back on it. The four books that I read were The Silent Patient, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, All about Love, and Normal People.

Anywayyy, that’s it for now!

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