Personal Narrative: A Career As An Occupational Therapist

Growing up in a small, rural town you come to know people on a very personal level. You share in their joy, their sorrow, and their struggles. Watching people who played significant roles in my life suffer because they did not get the help the needed impacted my life greatly. Observing the roles of several different healthcare professionals, I quickly came to the realization that patients in rural areas do not always receive the support they need. It wasn’t until I observed an Occupational Therapist working with my grandmother after she had a stroke that my perspective changed. I reflected while watching the Occupational Therapist work with my grandmother about the importance of what I was observing, not only for my grandmother, but for the
Currently I work in the customer service industry. This has taught me how to communicate with a vast array of people of all ages, races, and abilities. Working in the customer service industry has also helped me learn valuable conflict resolution skills. When a customer has a complaint I use problem solving and understanding to resolve the issue. This is beneficial to my career as an Occupational Therapist because communicating with patients is vital to being able to understand their needs and concerns and being able to advocate for them if necessary. Problem solving skills are also a necessary tool for Occupational Therapists when developing treatment plans and handling unexpected events in therapy. Another tool I have gained from working in the customer service industry is the significance of teamwork with my co-workers. When we are under a high-stress situation, it is vital for us to work together to not only keep customers happy, but to work as efficiently and swiftly as possible. Teamwork also creates a more pleasant work environment, and makes the job much more enjoyable. As an Occupational Therapist I know I will have to communicate and collaborate with other healthcare professionals, and my current job has taught me how to do such. While my professional experience has equipped me with many valuable assets that will be beneficial in
I am excited for the challenges I will face in the upcoming chapter of my education that will eventually lead me into an interesting and incredibly rewarding career. I have reflected upon the qualities required of a successful Occupational Therapist and genuinely believe I possess these characteristics. I possess an intrinsic desire to help others and assist them in helping themselves. My determination, listening skills, patience, relatability, and hands-on approach to problem solving skills are key components for the achievement of my goals. I aspire to be of service to others, specifically those in rural communities. Occupational Therapy will allow me to reach out to these populations in many different ways, and allow me to make the greatest contribution to society that I possibly can. If I can make a difference in even one person’s life, my life-long goals will be satisfied. I am certain Occupational Therapy is the right career path for me in every way as it is precisely what I am looking for in a vocation. I know I may not be able to change the world, but I can change the communities I reach out to as an Occupational Therapist. After all, everyone deserves to have the best quality of life possible regardless of age, sex, income, or disability; and I want to leave the world a