Julie Hadden
...started out in SVSU’s medical technology program, but then realized that she wanted to do something that would allow her to work more closely with people rather than spend in a laboratory. Now, as a part of her degree program, she is participating in Professor Nagayda’s current research project, which studies how to best prepare OT students for the teaching aspects of their careers.
“As I was exploring careers, the Occupational Therapy program was a good fit because I am already certified in massage therapy and personal training, and the OT program will let me build on what I already know I like to do.”
“I have always known instinctively that I want a career that involves helping people in a hands-on way. The great thing about OT is that is allows you so much creativity in helping your patients.”
“The program is arranged in a nicely logical progression – you learn first about all of the varied conditions occupational therapists treat, and then about assessment and treatment.”
“The progression of the coursework is structured so that everything always seems fresh. You’re continually building on what you learned in the previous semester, and there are four different field work experiences built into the program so that you by the time you graduate, you have experienced first-hand what it’s like to work in all of the four major practice areas within Occupational Therapy, so you will definitely know which one you want to work in.
“Right now, I am working on a long-term research project along with two other students under the direction of Professor Nagayda. We are looking at the question of whether or not a class in teaching methods in the Occupational Therapy program is the best way to prepare students for their clinical teaching roles.”
“At this stage, we just submitted the written grant application that will allow us to gain funding for the project, and are hoping to start gathering statewide data in the next few months.”