And So It Begins

I was encouraged by my mentor to start my own OT blog as I read through all the resources available to me online following my orientation into OT grad school last week. As such a dynamic field, there is constantly new information following research, new diagnoses, and experiences with more and more clients. I imagine there will be so much learned and shared throughout my career as a student and into the field! Of course, it is essential I am cautious of HIPPA laws and will absolutely respect all clients and sites where I take on fieldwork.

I want to start this blog with an intention to reach the world of OT and beyond with relevant experiences, applicable tools, useful wisdom, and grounded encouragement. Starting grad school feels like an amazing endeavor (day one is tomorrow! we'll see how I feel at the end of the week...) and I know it will come with endless challenges as well as tremendous rewards. I would love to track my experiences and share data, research, resources, and tips through this blog, checking in every couple weeks (at minimum once a month). I am eager to simply track my own progress but I also desire to reach the world of OT students who are heading down a similar path and want to make the most of their work.

At orientation I heard some key phrases (said to the whole group) that stuck with me:
>You are the ones who made it here today. You did the work, passed the classes and exams, wowed interviewers, wrote the essays. You deserve to be here and we're here to help you succeed.
>Occupational therapists have a desire to help people, help each other.
>There isn't anyone in here who doesn't want to succeed at being great at their work, work together to make that happen.
>(Following strict guidelines for the program, such as a list of professional behaviors required starting *today* in the classroom including: being a self-directed learner, clarifying and asking questions, participating, accepting criticism and applying it, putting forth our best effort, doing reading and assignments ahead of time to prepare for class, etc.) We (faculty) really want to see you succeed, we are on your team and when we point out your weaknesses, it is your job to correct them. Ultimately though, we want you to succeed.

For me, success as a grad student starts with healthy habits. Starting tonight, the routine is shifting, consistent bedtime and morning wake up calls! Grad School, here I come!