Elizabeth Williams, MSOT/S 2013

MSOT/S 2013

Hometown: Norris, TN

What advantages does the Program in Occupational Therapy at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis offer you that other programs don’t offer?

I believe that the Program offers a unique hands on research experience that only comes with being enrolled at one of the most well-known research producing schools in the country.

Why did you choose the Program?

I chose Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis because of its emphasis on cognition, access to a variety of clinical experiences, and its view of preparing all students to be general practitioners.

What can you say about the quality of education you are receiving?

I have no doubt that I am getting the best education in preparation of clinical practice. I feel as though through hands on client experience, getting to focus on a specific question through my research lab, and having quality lectures from experts in their field, I will be more than adequately prepared to begin working as an occupational therapist next year.

What is the learning atmosphere like? (people, resources provided, attitudes of faculty and staff, approach to teaching, quality of mentorship relationships, etc.)

The Program is very, very supportive. They want you to learn and to do well. It feels good to be able to approach professors, director, and staff as equals (in a respectful manner of course). Student feedback is requested and greatly appreciated; we even got a brand new auditorium out of it! Discussion format is the goal of most professors and I believe that this program is on the right track to making all students feel comfortable regardless of learning style or background.

What do you like best about attending school here?

I love that everyone in my class (and those above and below) are so talented and amazing. I love hearing their ideas and experiences and trying to apply that to what I already know. I enjoy that the Program allows ways to be a part of something bigger than school, through WUSOTA (Washington University Student Occupational Therapy Association) or extended fieldworks, or some class assignments. It is amazing to feel as though I’m already making an impact as a student.

As a group, how would you describe your classmates?

My classmates come from all different backgrounds and have hopes of dispersing to all different aspects of occupational therapy practice. We each are motivated and offer unique experiences. It is refreshing to be around so many people who share similar values and love for helping others. I like everything about them!

How would you describe the faculty?

The faculty is very open and informative. As I said before, it is refreshing to feel as though your professors believe they will learn from you almost as much as you will learn from them. I love the chance to have true discussions with those who know so much more than me and feel as though they truly care about my ideas as well as want to support my learning as much as they can.

What do you like best about the faculty?

I like that they are available and open to communication.

What about the school do you most want prospective students to know?

I want prospective students to know that the Program in Occupational Therapy at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis is going to open doors to new ideas, new connections and new opportunities for you to grow as an occupational therapist.

What do you think of living in St. Louis?

I truly love this city. I have found that St. Louis is incredibly friendly and has so much to offer (music, culture, museums, food, festivals, etc.) and a lot of it if for free!

What do you plan to do after graduation?

I’m moving to Austin, TX and pursuing a career working in inpatient neuro rehabilitation.

Anything else you would like to add?

Come to Washington University in St. Louis!