American Career College-Orange County recently hosted an engaging and informative event for its Occupational Therapy Assistant students, featuring a dynamic multi-disciplinary panel and an OTA Career Fair.
The event was designed to provide students with insights into the diverse career paths within the occupational therapy field while offering direct access to networking opportunities with industry professionals and potential employers.
At the heart of the event was the multi-disciplinary panel, which brought together experts from mental health, pediatric, and acute care facilities. Each professional shared their unique perspectives on OTAs' critical roles in their respective fields. In the mental health sector, OTAs were recognized for their ability to help clients overcome emotional and psychological barriers, while pediatric care specialists discussed the profound impact OTAs have on the development of children with disabilities. Acute care representatives highlighted OTAs' essential role in fast-paced hospital settings, helping patients regain independence and quality of life after major health events.
A key moment during the panel was the presentation from Dr. Stacey Willis, the dean of occupational therapy at West Coast University, who introduced ACC students to the Occupational Therapy Assistant Pathway. This innovative pathway allows ACC graduates to transition smoothly into WCU’s Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program, offering a direct route to further their education and qualify for higher-level OT roles. Dean Willis shared success stories of students who have advanced from OTA roles to full-fledged occupational therapists, underscoring the value of continued education and professional growth.
In addition to the panel, the OTA Career Fair provided students with an invaluable opportunity to meet with potential employers from various healthcare sectors. Representatives from hospitals, mental health clinics, rehabilitation centers, and pediatric facilities were on hand to discuss current job openings, career trajectories, and the qualities they seek in new hires. The fair allowed students to ask questions, explore different practice settings, and establish connections that could lead to future job placements.
The combination of the multi-disciplinary panel and the career fair gave ACC’s OTA students a comprehensive view of the opportunities that await them both immediately after graduation and as they continue their professional development.
Students left the event feeling inspired and equipped with valuable knowledge, confident in their ability to pursue meaningful careers in occupational therapy. Through events like this, ACC continues to demonstrate its dedication to supporting its students' success and professional growth, ensuring they are prepared for the ever-evolving demands of the healthcare industry.
