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Occupational Therapy Spotlight
Meet Brittany Bieber. Brittany is a third-year student in Drake's Occupational Therpay Doctorate (OTD) program and will graduate in 2022! In her last year of the OTD program, Brittany had the opportunity to complete a doctoral capstone experience at Project Renewal.
Name: Brittany Bieber
Hometown: Clear Lake, Iowa
Degree Program: OTD, May 2022
Capstone Organization: Drake University Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program
Location: Davenport, Iowa
Tell us about your capstone experience at Project Renewal. What were your responsibilities and what did a typical day/week look like?
My responsibilities at Project Renewal consist of supervising educational and recreational activities designed to teach school-age, inner-city children needed life skills such as self-esteem, time management, non-violent conflict resolution, interpersonal skills, and appropriate social behavior. Additionally, I am responsible for the daily preparation and facilitation of my health promotion program for the kindergarten through second graders. I created a wellness program for minority and low-income children that targets building positive lifestyle habits. The program is a year-long calendar focused on the mind, body, and soul. Incorporated within the calendar are various elements addressing health and wellness from a holistic view. Monthly affirmations for the participants to practice prior to completing the designated activity of the day. Each day of the week has an overarching theme related to an aspect of health: Set Intentions Sunday, Mindfulness Monday, Take Action Tuesday, Work it Out Wednesday, Tasty Thursday, “Fun”ctional Friday, and Self-Care Saturday. Additionally, each day is designated with an activity that promotes healthy occupational engagement.
What is your favorite thing about this Doctoral Capstone?
My favorite thing about the doctoral capstone experience is the overall autonomy that it provided. After 2 years of didactic coursework and 6 months of level II fieldwork, this has been a chance to shine as individuals and display our unique contribution to the profession. Furthermore, my doctoral capstone experience provided exposure to and practice with a diverse and underserved population, which in turn allowed for enhancement of my personal and professional skills
What attracted you to Drake's OTD program?
There were many aspects of Drake’s OTD program that attracted me and made it stand out compared to other programs. I was initially impressed by the graduation rate and NBCOT passing rate for previous cohorts, especially since it was a newly established program. Also, the collective accomplishments and qualifications the faculty possess led me to believe that I would receive nothing short of an exceptional education. My story is very unique, and I feel so fortunate to soon be graduating from Drake’s OTD program.
Have your career goals changed at all since starting Drake's OTD program? How so?
My career goals are different than what I had set as I was beginning the program. I was naive to the extent of possibilities within the field of occupational therapy so if anything, my current goals have been built on and expanded from my initial ones. My focus is still on pediatrics; however, I want to achieve the most out of my career and will continue to establish and reach new goals!
How has Drake prepared you for your future career as an occupational therapy professional?
Drake has provided me with the competency and confidence to take my career in any direction I desire. I believe that I have the fundamental skills and knowledge to succeed in many specialty areas and settings
What is one piece of advice you'd give to future occupational therapy students?
Take it all in! Not only the content but the overall experience that this program provides. Be proud of yourself and all your accomplishments that have led you to this part of your journey. It doesn’t get easier, but you will get stronger!
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