Stephanie Collins '19
Your Name: Stephanie Collins
Graduation Year: 2019
Major: Psychological Science
Your Story: I have known occupational therapy (OT) is my passion from a young age, as I was diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP) after acquiring a stroke in utero. Due to the complex deficits associated with CP, I underwent various forms of therapy throughout my life. I found the most meaning through OT because it supported not only my physical goals, but strengthened my mental and emotional wellbeing as well. With OT, the way I envisioned my diagnosis was completely transformed. Lifelong therapy has changed my experience with CP from a towering insecurity to one of my most unique assets. My interest in becoming an occupational therapist began as simply a means to give back. I intend to serve others in the same way I have been served by helping others achieve their most valued meaningful activities. Through various professional and academic experiences, OT has evolved into my purpose.
Top Activities/Experiences: (in no particular order)
Gustie Buddies
1. Internship with an Occupational Therapist at Pediatric Therapy Services Inc., Mankato, MN
2. Habitat for Humanity volunteer trip to Louisiana
3. Women Coaches Symposium through Sport Psychology course
4. Behavior therapy job at Partners in Excellence during my gap year (they also offer summer internships and shadowing opportunities)
Advice:
1. Don’t just do the minimum! When I began my research for OT graduate programs, I looked for the least number of requirements. Not all programs require the same prerequisites. For example, one program might require biology and another may not. My mindset was, “I don’t want to take biology so I will just apply to the schools that don’t require it.” Now, my advice would be to take that course. Go above and beyond. The harder you work now, the less you will have to work to convince programs you have what it takes.
2. Think outside the box! Graduate programs care about your experiences that may seem as though they are not related to OT. Even if some experiences aren’t directly related to OT or the medical field, they show the admissions team who you are as a person. Most programs will tell you they are looking for not only OT volunteer hours, but also community service hours in general. They want to see that this is who you are as an individual, not just who you are trying to be to get into graduate school.
3. Talk to people! Send that email, ask that question, go to all the preparatory events, get business cards, show your face. The more people you talk to and connect with, the better you will understand what you are getting into. Get to know your professors and let them get to know you. Don’t feel like a nuisance, they want to know you too! At Gustavus, I had only positive experiences when visiting professor’s office hours, and you will appreciate making the effort when you need recommendation letters.
Future Plans: In May 2020, I will be moving to Waukesha, WI to begin my two-year journey with Carroll University’s Master of Occupational Therapy program. As of now, my main areas of interest are mental health and pediatrics. There are countless areas of focus you can explore with OT. My interests may change as I go through school, and that is okay!
Updated 3/31/2020 HB