Paula Arcila Colt
When I was in high school in Colombia, my involvement in the OT field began with my pursuit of higher education. After exploring various healthcare professions with my parents' guidance and considering my interests, I discovered that occupational therapy aligned perfectly with my goals and values.
Once I decided to pursue occupational therapy, I took the necessary steps to meet the academic requirements at the University of Valle in Cali, Colombia. When I began studying, the first semesters gave me a well-rounded understanding of the profession and solidified my commitment to pursuing a career that would allow me to make a tangible difference in people's lives.
When I moved from Colombia to Buffalo, I wanted to pursue my educational goals. I found UB as one of the largest universities in town with an accredited OT program. To continue my learning experience in the OT field in the United States, I started researching the best options I could have as an immigrant and the requirements to get accepted into the UB program.
With Dr. Tona's help and guidance during the beginning of the process, I decided UB would be the best fit for me because it provides a comprehensive curriculum, ensuring that I would receive a high-quality education with a solid foundation for my career and future goals.
During the occupational therapy program, I have had the opportunity to engage in diverse coursework that has provided me with a solid foundation in the field. My favorite courses include "Orthotics and Prosthetics," Functional Anatomy," and "Neurorehabilitation Across the Lifespan." In addition, in the fall of the fourth year, I liked the two "Medical Evaluation and Intervention" classes, which provided the opportunity to develop clinical skills and reasoning, explore a wide range of therapeutic approaches, adapt interventions to individual client needs, and gain hands-on experience designing and implementing treatment plans. These courses gave me confidence and knowledge in applying therapeutic interventions before entering my first Level II fieldwork.
Currently, I am proud of and excited about my progress in my studies and the career path I have chosen at UB. I have had the opportunity to engage in clinical fieldwork experiences in various settings. My last experience was in medical subacute care in Buffalo. This placement allowed me to apply my knowledge and skills in real-world scenarios, working directly with clients and interdisciplinary teams. My classmates and I are also collaborating with Dr. Tona to develop our research project. I am excited about the potential to continue my research endeavors and contribute to the occupational therapy literature in the future.
I look forward to further growth, continued learning, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals through my work. My goal is to empower individuals to regain independence, maximize their potential, and lead fulfilling lives by providing compassionate, evidence-based care and advocating for their well-being.
Take the time to figure out what you are really interested in doing and don't rush to make an important decision. If you are interested in OT, research the field and familiarize yourself with the practice areas, what the profession entails, and whether it aligns with your interests and aspirations. Another piece of advice would be to seek opportunities to gain exposure to the field.
You could volunteer at healthcare facilities or shadow occupational therapists. These experiences will provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of being an occupational therapist. Also, reach out to academic advisors or professionals for guidance on the educational path and specific program entry requirements. It is valuable to take the time to reflect on your motivations and clarify your passion, values, and long-term goals and keep persevering.
