I grew up in Concord, MA, with my mom, dad, and grandmother. I first learned about occupational therapy in high school while volunteering at an integrated preschool. It started as community service, but quickly became the field I wanted to pursue. I chose Ithaca College for its five-year master’s program and the welcoming cross country/track and field team. I am unsure what I will do post-graduation, but I look forward to working in pediatrics.
My most memorable Ithaca College experience was a short moment amidst the chaos of virtual learning in spring 2020 and what felt like the cancellation of society during my senior year. One afternoon my teammates and coaching staff video conferenced what used to be our weekly team meeting. We picked up right where we left off. We set up tutoring for teammates struggling with school, we created a buddy system for remote training, and we laughed and smiled together like we always did. It was a miniscule moment in my four collegiate years, but it reminded me that I am graduating with more than just a degree. I am graduating having gained a new incredible family of people that will be with me wherever I may go and whenever I may need them.