Future Leader: Brianna Grant, OTD/S '27

Brianna Grant, OTD/S ’27
Hometown: Memphis, TN
Degrees: BA in Art History from The University of Georgia, MAT in K-8 Education from Queens University of Charlotte, Endorsement in Gifted Education from Whitworth University
Leadership: WUSOTA Community Service Co-chair, WashU OT Student Ambassador

What are your meaningful occupations?
When I’m home, spending time with friends on hikes and enjoying beach adventures with my husband and young adult children are top priorities. I also particularly love cheering on my daughter at her sports events and other high school activities.

In St. Louis, outside of my school commitments, training my dog, Cascade, is my most meaningful occupation. We are working on her skills to prepare for formal Therapy Dog training. Additionally, I make sure to carve out time for sewing projects, yoga, and walking or running with Cascade to maintain my mental and physical health.

I was sad to leave my book club in Duvall, so when a classmate started one within our cohort, I joined right away. I appreciate having a reading schedule to follow and enjoy the lively discussions and different viewpoints shared during our monthly gatherings.

What is your definition of occupational therapy (OT)?
OT is a health-care field that uses a holistic approach to help clients participate in daily activities. By addressing physical, mental and social needs, occupational therapists empower individuals and communities by collaborating with them to problem-solve and enhance their overall quality of life.

Why did you choose the OTD degree?
I chose the OTD degree because it offers the best opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of how OT serves clients across various settings. Additionally, the OTD program includes a mentored research lab experience, and I was selected for the School-Based Scholars Program to prepare for working in school settings. As a lifelong learner and former educator, I also appreciate that this degree opens doors to potential future opportunities in higher education teaching.

What are your career goals?
The variety of settings in OT is one of the main reasons I was drawn to this field. I plan to begin my career in a pediatric setting, whether inpatient or outpatient, before transitioning to school-based practice. As I gain more experience with different environments and populations, I'm open to working with clients outside of pediatrics as well. My involvement in Dr. Susy Stark's lab, supporting her Community Participation Transition after Stroke (COMPASS) and Home Hazard Removal Program (HARP) projects, may also inspire me to pursue opportunities in community and population health.

What WashU experience stands out to you?
The most impactful WashU experience has been the Implementing Person-Environment-Occupation-Participation class. It had the best fit – a faculty team with lasting impressions from Dr. Christine Berg. It allowed me to bring together all the components of the curriculum as well as to practice skills that will benefit me as a future leader.

Anything else you would like us to know?
Being in my second semester at WashU feels like just dipping my toes into all the university has to offer! I'm already impressed by the extensive opportunities for growth beyond the classroom, celebrating the arts, and collaborating with others. I'm eagerly awaiting the outcome of my art submission to the "In Our Words" storytelling series organized by the medical school in March. Additionally, I was a team member for the Assistive Tech Make-a-thon, where I worked alongside fellow OT students and students from the engineering and design departments to help develop a vest with multi-sensorial symbols to help a client with disabilities communicate nonverbally. Prioritizing creative exploration is important to me, and I greatly appreciate these thoughtful opportunities to challenge myself in new and exciting ways.