Dwight experienced great loss at a young age and turned tragedy into focus as he set out to become an Occupational Therapy Assistant. He found his program to be distinctly different from his bachelor’s educational experience because of the relationships he developed along the way.
Read his story below and learn how he began working in a career he loves.
“My mom passed away when I was 19 and I lost my sister a year later. It was devastating and I often wanted to give up, but I also wanted my life to honor them. During that time, my family was there for me and I learned to keep going no matter the challenges. I received a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and Fitness Management and worked as a personal trainer for a time. However, it was while I was working as a therapy technician at a long-term facility that I observed occupational therapists and was drawn to the field.
After some research, I found Pima Medical Institute’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program and enrolled. It was quite a different experience from my bachelor’s education because I knew what I wanted for my career and I was exceptionally focused. I developed much better relationships with my classmates and had a great rapport with my instructors. I had to commute 90 minutes each way and was in a car accident totaling my car, but my classmates and the people at Pima Medical were there for me.
I enjoyed my clinical experience and was known as the person who asked lots of questions. I wanted to know what I didn’t know. I am currently working for Encompass Health and am also working in pediatric home health. If I can wake up every day and help people and make them happy, then I am happy. I’m so thankful to my classmates and instructors and everyone at Pima Medical who supported me. I will always be grateful!”
Would you like to wake up each day excited about your career and helping others? A career as an occupational therapy assistant might be the right path for you.
