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OT Personal Statements
Lauren Hammond is our OT application essay expert and has been helping people write their Occupational Therapy personal statements for several years. Whether you just want some feedback on a draft, or you're staring at a blank Word doc and don't know where to begin, she is happy to help!
Contact Lauren directly at 951-395-4646 (phone or text), or send us an email.
Meet Lauren Hammond
Lauren: I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Literature and Writing, with a concentration in Writing, at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) and my Master’s Degree in English and Comparative Literature at San Diego State University (SDSU). I recently completed my PhD in English at the University of California Riverside (UCR) in September 2023. Upon graduating, I began my current position as UCR's Graduate Writing Center Specialist and Fulbright Program Advisor last summer.
I have been a writing consultant for nearly 10 years now, and I've helped people with research writing, thesis/dissertation projects, rhetorical and literary analyses, writing in the humanities, grammar/sentence mechanics, and more. My focus for VKTP centers on graduate school application materials– including personal statements, diversity statements, and research statements– as well as job market materials for academic and alt-academic positions– resumes, CVs, cover letters, etc.
During my downtime, I love hanging out with my husband, 2-year-old daughter, and our two dogs, Link and Leia! My favorite activities are going on the boat, cruising on the golf cart, and making our way through all of the local eateries. When we aren’t out and about, I typically enjoy reading and watching movies.
Working with Lauren is $225 per hour or $995 for a package purchase of 5 hours. You can reach her at 951-395-4646 (phone or text), or by sending us an email.
3 Quick OT Personal Statement Tips
1. Explain Your Interest in Occupational Therapy
- Share a meaningful experience: Describe a specific moment or situation that introduced you to occupational therapy, such as shadowing an OT, volunteering with individuals facing physical or cognitive challenges, or personal encounters with the field.
- Highlight OT’s unique role: Explain how OT’s holistic and client-centered approach to improving quality of life resonates with your interests and values.
- Show your dedication to empowering others: Connect your interest in OT to your desire to help individuals achieve independence and participation in meaningful daily activities.
Example:
"I first became aware of the transformative power of occupational therapy while volunteering at a rehabilitation center. Observing an OT help a stroke survivor relearn how to dress independently made me realize the profound impact this field has on restoring not only physical function but also a sense of purpose and autonomy."
2. Highlight Relevant Experiences and Skills
- Discuss academic and professional preparation: Share your background in relevant fields like psychology, kinesiology, or health sciences, along with any practical experiences like shadowing an OT, volunteering, or working in rehabilitation or caregiving roles.
- Showcase essential OT qualities: Highlight skills such as empathy, creativity, problem-solving, and adaptability, providing specific examples of how you’ve demonstrated these in relevant contexts.
- Connect your experiences to OT’s scope: Reflect on how your previous experiences have prepared you to address the physical, emotional, and environmental challenges that OTs help clients overcome.
Example:
"As a teaching assistant for a special education classroom, I collaborated with an OT to adapt classroom tools for students with sensory processing disorders. This experience deepened my understanding of how small, tailored interventions can make a significant difference in a person’s ability to succeed in their daily environment."
3. Align Your Goals with the Program’s Strengths
- Research the program: Mention specific features of the program, such as faculty expertise, hands-on clinical training, or opportunities for specialization in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, or mental health.
- Connect your goals to the program’s offerings: Explain how the program will help you achieve your aspirations, whether that’s working in rehabilitation, schools, or community settings.
- Articulate your long-term vision: Share your career goals and how an OT degree will help you make a difference in the lives of the clients you aim to serve.
Example:
"I am particularly drawn to [Program Name] because of its emphasis on community-based interventions and opportunities to work with underserved populations. This aligns with my goal of specializing in mental health OT to help individuals with anxiety and depression regain confidence and re-engage in meaningful activities."
OT Statement Examples
Below you'll find a strong OT personal statement, followed by a brief discussion of why we liked it.
When my grandfather had a stroke, it was an occupational therapist who helped him regain his independence. I remember watching her work with him on simple tasks—buttoning a shirt, holding a fork—and seeing how much pride he took in each small victory. That experience opened my eyes to the power of occupational therapy to transform lives. It wasn’t just about physical recovery; it was about restoring dignity and confidence. Since then, I’ve been passionate about pursuing a career where I can help others reclaim their lives in the face of challenges.
In college, I majored in psychology, focusing on courses like Human Development and Behavioral Neuroscience to understand the interplay between mind and body. A standout experience was a research project on how adaptive equipment impacts quality of life for individuals with disabilities. This project not only deepened my knowledge of the tools used in occupational therapy but also underscored the importance of tailoring interventions to individual needs and goals.
I’ve also gained hands-on experience through shadowing occupational therapists in various settings, including schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. One of the most memorable cases was a child with sensory processing disorder. The therapist used creative approaches, like incorporating play and art into sessions, to help the child manage sensory overload. Witnessing the child’s progress reinforced my admiration for the versatility and creativity required in occupational therapy.
In addition, I worked as a caregiver for a young adult with cerebral palsy, assisting with daily activities and therapy exercises. This role gave me firsthand insight into the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the patience and empathy required to support them effectively. It also strengthened my communication skills, as I learned to adapt my approach to meet his unique needs and preferences.
Volunteering at a community center for older adults further broadened my perspective on occupational therapy. I helped organize activities designed to promote fine motor skills and cognitive engagement, such as crafts and puzzles. One participant shared how these activities helped her feel more capable and connected, which reminded me of my grandfather’s journey and reignited my commitment to this field.
Pursuing a Master’s in Occupational Therapy (OT) is the next step in my journey. I am particularly drawn to [University Name] because of its emphasis on holistic care and evidence-based practice. The program’s focus on serving diverse populations aligns with my goal of working with clients across the lifespan, from children with developmental delays to older adults recovering from illness or injury.
In the future, I hope to specialize in rehabilitation for neurological conditions, helping clients regain independence and achieve their personal goals. I’m especially interested in exploring how emerging technologies, like virtual reality and adaptive devices, can enhance therapy outcomes. Ultimately, I want to be an occupational therapist who empowers individuals to live meaningful and fulfilling lives, no matter their circumstances.
Looking back, my grandfather’s recovery journey was the catalyst for my passion for occupational therapy. Since then, every step—from academic studies to hands-on experiences—has prepared me to make a meaningful impact in this field. I am eager to bring my dedication, creativity, and empathy to your program and to continue growing as both a person and a professional.
What we liked:
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Personal Connection: The story of the applicant’s grandfather provides a compelling and emotional entry point, showing how the profession has personally impacted their life.
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Academic Preparation: The essay highlights relevant coursework and a research project, demonstrating a strong understanding of foundational concepts and their application to occupational therapy.
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Diverse Hands-On Experiences: Shadowing, caregiving, and volunteering showcase the applicant’s direct engagement with different populations and settings, underscoring their preparedness for the field.
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Admiration for the Profession: The applicant expresses a deep appreciation for the creativity and adaptability required in OT, which aligns with the field's values.
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Program Fit: The statement ties the applicant’s interests to the specific strengths of the program, such as holistic care and serving diverse populations.
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Clear Career Goals: Specializing in neurological rehabilitation and exploring emerging technologies gives the admissions committee a clear picture of the applicant’s ambitions.
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Emotional Resonance: The conclusion ties back to the opening anecdote, creating a cohesive narrative that emphasizes the applicant’s passion and dedication.
Video: 7 Ways to Write a Crappy Graduate School Personal Statement
For more personal statement tips, check out Vince's video: 7 Ways to Write a Crappy Graduate School Personal Statement.
Frequently Asked Questions
We generally recommend about 4-8 weeks - 6 weeks is a good sweet spot. It takes time to come up with ideas and get those ideas onto paper in a compelling form.
Other than Google, I really like the sample admissions essays in Graduate Admissions Essays by Donald Asher. If you're a DIY kind of person, Asher's advice for the entire graduate admissions process is very good.
Note: The above links are Amazon affiliate links and I earn a commission if you purchase things through them. However, any commission I earn comes at no additional cost to you, and you pay nothing extra. My recommendation is based on extensive experience using this book's advice with dozens of people over the years, and I recommend it because it's helpful and useful, not because of the small commission I receive if you choose to buy it.
MOST personal statements are BORING! Not because the person writing them is boring, but perhaps because:
- Their focus is too broad. They try to cover everything they've done, and nothing ends up standing out.
- They're impersonal. It's a personal statement - the reader needs to get a sense of who you are and what you're actually like - not some sanitized "professional" version of you.
- They're too safe. Ironically, a statement that takes no risks can be the riskiest thing you can do. We're not applying to a program with the intent of blending in with all the other applicants!
Granted, the above things can be overdone, or done wrong. But most statements make no impact, so it's worth thinking about how yours actually can.
Gaining admission into an Occupational Therapy (OT) graduate program is like preparing for a complex dance — it requires a combination of technical knowledge, practical skills, and a deep understanding of human movement and daily living activities. Here's how the process usually unfolds:
The journey often begins with a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as health sciences, psychology, or kinesiology. Key coursework often includes anatomy, physiology, psychology, and sociology. Doing well in these courses is crucial because they form the foundation of understanding how to assist individuals in improving their daily living and working skills.
Hands-on experience is highly valued in OT applications. This can come from volunteer work, internships, or employment in settings like rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or clinics. It’s not just about clocking hours; it's about showing genuine interest in and commitment to the field of occupational therapy. This experience is crucial in demonstrating an understanding of the role of OTs and their impact on improving patients' quality of life.
Many OT programs require the GRE, and a good score can be beneficial. It serves as an indicator of your readiness for the academic rigor of graduate studies.
Applications typically include essays and letters of recommendation. The essays are an opportunity to share your passion for OT, your understanding of the profession, and your future career goals. Recommendation letters should ideally come from individuals who can speak to your abilities and potential in the field of OT.
Interviews are often a part of the application process, allowing you to demonstrate your communication skills, empathy, and professionalism — all essential qualities for an OT.
Going above and beyond, such as participating in OT-related research or being involved in relevant organizations, can enhance your application.
In summary, getting into an OT graduate program involves demonstrating academic strength in relevant subjects, gaining practical experience in the field, articulating a strong understanding of and commitment to occupational therapy, and showcasing personal qualities vital to the profession. It’s a journey for those dedicated to helping individuals lead independent and fulfilling lives through therapeutic interventions.
BTW, Lauren can also help with:
- MS in Business Analytics personal statements
- MBA personal statements
- Law School personal statements
- PsyD personal statements
- Physician Assistant personal statements
- Physical Therapy personal statements
- Speech-Language Pathology personal statements
- Occupational Therapy personal statements
- Marriage and Family Therapy personal statements
- Master's degree personal statements
- Master's of Public Policy personal statements
- Medical Residency personal statements
- Nursing school personal statements
- Veterinary School personal statements
- PhD personal statements
- Post Doc personal statements
- Fellowships and Grants personal statements