In order to apply to the occupational therapy program at Touro University Nevada, I had

to spend some time shadowing an occupational therapist. I was able to shadow occupational
therapists in the acute care, outpatient, and early intervention settings. Perhaps because it was
assumed that I knew, but I was never told what an occupation was by any of the therapists I
shadowed. Based on my experiences of observing them, I thought occupations meant only
activities of daily living. I was shocked to find out that occupational therapists have a role in not
only activities of daily living, but instrumental activities of daily living, rest and sleep, education,
play, work, leisure, and social participation. I now know much more about occupations; they
have meaning and purpose, they support health and participation in life, and they demand certain
responses which allow them to have a therapeutic benefit.
Collecting artifacts for this section of my portfolio has been the most exciting to me.
Designing my own assistive technology device is one of the accomplishments that I am most
proud of. In fact, although it will not necessarily be used for its intended purpose, my husband is
incorporating my device into a randomized-control trial that he is conducting for increasing
upper extremity function in clients post stroke. Additionally, I have come to understand the
importance of developing a strong occupational profile to guide me in implementing meaningful,
occupation-based interventions.
From speaking with my peers, I know that many facilities do not support occupationbased interventions. Many of my classmates expressed feelings of being confined to only using
therapeutic exercise, contrived, and preparatory activities. I feel fortunate to have completed my
level II fieldwork in the school district because they allowed me to implement formal education
and play-based occupational interventions. Even if the facility where I gain employment does not
regularly incorporate occupation-based interventions, I will. Through combination of my critical

and creative thinking skills, I feel confident that occupation-based interventions can be
implemented in any setting and with great outcomes.
From my experience, I know that some medical professionals may think that because an
intervention does not appear to be medically-based, that it lacks significance. However, I will be
sure to explain the therapeutic benefits of occupations to my clients and the disciplines I
encounter in practice. I will continuously advocate for the remarkable profession of occupational
therapy.