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Two Letters, One Enlightening Minor ⟩
June 2, 2025, by Cara

Beginnings and Endings Community What are OS/OT?

Though it’s been a few weeks since graduation, I find myself constantly reminiscing. My undergraduate experience was nothing short of exhilarating and transformative. A large part of that was due to being part of the OS Minor. The below is a love letter to the program and everything it gave me. 

Dear OS Minor,

It’s not often you find an environment that makes it worthwhile to show up to class. But you were one of those hidden gems. You arrived when I needed it most, turning the fear that comes with transferring into a sense of community, direction, and opportunity.

The courses themselves weren’t just theoretical — they were opportunities for self-expression, connection, and catharsis. I gained practical skills both for my OT toolbox and to thrive in life. Whether it was intimate class discussions, creative group work to understand OT across the lifespan, or service-learning like beach clean-ups and interacting with shelter animals, I learned to build meaningful connections and approach every space I occupy with open-mindedness, humility, and inclusivity. Additionally, I better understood who I am and what matters to me. Embracing the power of personal narrative allowed me to express my values to inspire others in my community, like Thrive Pod, a newsletter column for USC’s AAPI community, encouraging students to break the stigma and prioritize self-care.

But what truly makes the program valuable isn’t fun, unique courses that merely fulfill credit. It’s the professors, some of the most wholesome and remarkable individuals I’ll ever know.

To the faculty: there will never be enough words to do you justice. From the start, you created a welcoming and nurturing space, where every student was on a first-name basis with you all and going to office hours didn’t feel formal or intimidating. I’ll never forget Ashley’s sweetness and natural talent for breaking the ice, Diego’s childlike energy, Arameh for being the ultimate girl boss, Gabe for being down-to-earth, and Kate who, put simply, is the epitome of “Dancing Queen” by ABBA. Thanks to all of you and the comfort you provided, I found the reassurance I needed that USC was the right place for me, and that I’d be supported with the quality education and support concomitant with my aspirations. 

Besides your personalities, what sets you apart from other professors is the way you constantly enhance learning. It’s not just in your thoroughly written syllabus, but rather through the compassion you give so sincerely and freely. You took the time to understand my interests, offered mentorship, helped me get involved on campus, guided me through graduate school applications, and believed in my potential as an OT. I greatly appreciate your investment in me as more than just a student and hope to embody that same warmth, empathy, and dedication for my future patients.

Oh — and I can’t forget about being an Undergraduate Student Ambassador. From outreach efforts to filming faculty doing the silliest social media trends for recruitment, this was one of the highlights of my time at USC. It gave me the opportunity to give back to the program, promote OT, support prospective students, and become more connected to the Chan OSOT community. To everyone I’ve worked with this past year — thank you for the wonderful memories and friendships.

While part of me wants to freeze time, I’m eager for what’s next. This isn’t goodbye, OS Minor, for you were the foundation for everything to come. Sometimes I wonder what my college experience might’ve been like without the minor, but I wouldn’t want to have it any other way.

✌️
Cara

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A Great Adventure with Great Friends ⟩
May 23, 2025, by Trinity

Beginnings and Endings Community

Hi! My name is Trinity, and I am a current BS-OTD student. Essentially, I am getting my undergraduate degree and doctorate of occupational therapy in six years here at USC. (Take a look Here on the website for more information on this program!)

I am just starting my first summer in the OTD program, and I am beyond excited. Some of my favorite occupations include watching sports, reading and baking. I am a huge Lego fan too! Originally I am from Joshua Tree, California. I absolutely love USC and occupational therapy!

Four years ago, I chose to come to USC to study occupational therapy, and just last week, I graduated with my bachelor’s degree! It was the fastest four years of my life, but it was filled with so many incredible memories and experiences. When I committed to this program, knowing I would be here for six years, I did not realize how quickly each day would pass and how much I would learn about myself along the way. Now I am over halfway through the program, and I am trying to cherish every moment.

One aspect of this program that is definitely worth cherishing is the group. During the doctorate program, there are about 40 people in each group who I take the majority of my classes with. I met all of these amazing individuals last fall when I started taking graduate courses full-time. I have realized that people who decide to pursue occupational therapy have a lot in common, and that makes us get along famously. When you have similar goals and outlooks, it becomes easy to make friends and build connections. Occupational therapy is great, and the people who want to be occupational therapists are pretty fantastic too!

Beyond my group in the OTD program, I have had a cohort of 10 BS-OTD students who have been with me since freshman year (all the way back in 2021) and who are still in the OTD program with me now. I am beyond grateful that I have such amazing people on this journey with me. Every one of them has become a wonderful friend, and they are a big reason why I have loved my time here.

Sneak a peek at us in 2021. It feels just like yesterday and also so long ago!

I remember meeting them all during the first online information session, not knowing how close we would become. Then, we were all unsure about what the future would hold. Now, we have graduated!

The first time we rode the shuttle from USC’s main campus to the Health Science Campus when we took anatomy was something I will always remember. We got there very early because we were so nervous. When we wore scrubs for the first time in that class, it felt like we were Real Adults.

Every year, we make time for a holiday party and gift exchange. Coordinating 10 schedules isn’t easy — especially close to breaks — but we always make it happen. Those evenings filled with food, laughter and conversation are among my favorite memories. Whether it’s having class in the iconic OT house, grabbing dinner or coffee after class, or showing up to support each other at events, my cohort has made this journey unforgettable.

Last week, my cohort and I graduated together. This commemorating event has allowed me to reflect on my experience in college, and I am realizing how important the people I have met at USC were to my experience. I am so grateful we could take graduation pictures together, so I can forever remember the cohort who got me through school.

Thank you to Alvin, Berenice, Cristina, Daniel, Joseph, Kyra, Lauren, Lexee and Manny!

USC is great, occupational therapy is wonderful, but it is the people I have met who have made this experience the absolute best it could be!

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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!

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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!

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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.

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