Master of Occupational Therapy graduate Julia Donohue (MOT 2024) joined us recently to discuss her transition from the program into practice. In our interview, she provided valuable insights into her own personal growth during her time in the program and how the program has shaped her current day experiences as an occupational therapist.
What inspired you to pursue a graduate degree in occupational therapy?
There wasn’t just one thing that inspired me, but many different moments that led to me to pursue a graduate degree in occupational therapy. To be honest, before I applied for the program, I was feeling quite lost in terms of what I should do for my career. The first time I really found out what an OT does was when I had a loved one get into a severe accident. It was then I saw the incredible impact an OT has across all stages of recovery. After that, I started to learn more about occupational therapy by talking to friends who worked in healthcare. I found out that OTs can work in a wide range of areas, including mental health, which has always been a field I’ve been passionate about. I discovered that OTs create change through practical strategies requiring creativity, collaboration, and empathy and I thought that was something I could do. Although, I felt uncertain at first about my chances of being accepted, I had amazing friends encourage me to apply and the rest is history! It was my life experiences that led me to occupational therapy, and I am grateful, as I have truly found my calling.
What does a day-to-day look like in the life as an MOT student? (E.g. schedules, daily activities, assignments, etc.)
Expect to be pleasantly overwhelmed at first, but in a good way. There is so much to learn in just two years. However, the instructors and staff do an amazing job at scheduling assignments, exams, fieldwork, etc. in a way that flows well and limits stress. You will also be given the schedule well in advance so you can plan accordingly. A typical school day will have classes from 9am-12pm and 1pm-4pm. However, there are afternoons where you may have assigned time to work on projects independently or as a group. Each day is different and not every class is a typical lecture. There are virtual small group discussions, labs with hands on learning, interactive break out stations, and speciality lectures which may include people with lived experience sharing their stories. Participation and discussion questions are encouraged. There are a wide range of assignment types such as standard papers, creative projects, groupwork, research projects, presentations, multiple choice exams, and practical exams. The good news is there is lots of time for fun! You’ll have the opportunity to connect with a fantastic group of people who are also your future colleagues, through school-led events and during your free time. Personally, I have made lifelong friends through these experiences!
As a graduate of the MOT program, what has been one experience that has taught you something valuable about yourself?
Just simply achieving all requirements for graduation has led me to understand that I am more capable and resilient than I had originally thought. One of the more challenging aspects of the program was working on the capstone research project, which introduced a great deal of uncertainty. Research, by nature, is unpredictable. You cannot control who volunteers to participate or guarantee things will unfold according to plan. I learned that I very much struggle with a lack of control (but I mean don’t we all at some point in our lives!). Our project was unique, which I’m proud of, but it also came with its own set of obstacles. In the end, I had to learn to be more comfortable with the unknown and establish a growth mindset so that I could enjoy the process of learning instead of being attached to the outcome. This experience allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of my strengths and weaknesses and through this heightened self-awareness, I realized just how resourceful and determined I truly am.
How have you found the transition between school and your professional life?
The transition from school to my professional life was scary at first. Suddenly it was real, and I was the sole OT on the unit where I was hired. Fortunately, I had the privilege of receiving mentorship from a seasoned OT at a nearby unit who had previously worked in mine. I also had shadow days at another hospital to gain further experience in my specific setting. The transition was made even smoother by incredibly supportive colleagues. From social workers to nurses to doctors to managers, everyone was happy to answer my questions and collaborate in providing quality care. I certainly have had to work on building my confidence, but I find each day I become more comfortable in my role as I build my OT toolbox and I must admit, I am enjoying free evenings with no homework to do!
How have the experiences in the MOT program and in the courses you took prepared you for this transition?
The coursework and fieldwork in the MOT program complement each other well. At first, you may not realize how much of the theory you’re learning is being integrated into your thinking, but by the end of the program, it starts to become second nature in how you view the world. Whether it’s evaluating the accessibility of a washroom, grading an activity for yourself at home, or adapting your approach in various daily scenarios, you begin to “think like an OT” without even realizing it. This mindset becomes a part of your everyday life and is essential for effective practice. When you start something new, anxiety is inevitable, but I found that my diverse fieldwork placements—five in total—prepared me well for the transition into professional life. These placements emphasized that being an OT isn’t about memorizing interventions or diagnoses; it’s about thinking critically from an occupational therapy perspective. One of the most helpful aspects of the program was the encouragement and support from instructors and classmates. I often hear my instructors’ voices in my head reminding me that I am capable and knowledgeable. The friends I made along the way have provided invaluable reassurance, profound wisdom, and validation as I navigate this new career.
Outside of work, what do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
Pet all the dogs! In all seriousness, I like to say hi to every dog I see, walk in nature, go in water as much as I can, and get in the odd ski day. I think of myself as a complicated plant, I just need a little sun and water to perk up again. I am also on a soccer team that played against one of our professors and unfortunately, I lost! I really enjoy new experiences such as travelling, trying unique foods, or signing up for golf lessons (wish me luck) and who doesn’t love to binge a good TV show?
What advice do you have for prospective applicants that want to pursue the MOT program?
Make sure that you know how to take good care of yourself because you are about to go into a career where you will be caring for others every day. I know we have all heard this countless times, but prioritizing your physical and mental health is essential. Whether that’s exercising regularly, meditating, eating healthy food, or having a good support system in place. Get to know what re-energizes you and learn the signs that you might need an extra hand. Have a plan in place for when those reg flags show up so that you can give yourself a break. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup! I also recommend you take the time to connect with practicing OTs to get to know more about the profession and talk to current students to get a sense of what to expect. Assess if the career aligns with what you’re truly looking for. I might be a bit biased, but with the vast range of opportunities OTs have, what’s not to love?