I was recently invited to speak on Career Day at the New Heights Academy High School on April 23. This charter school fills the second floor of an old industrial warehouse in Harlem, New York. Their mission is to consistently recognize and reward students on achievements in pride, integrity, academics, enthusiasm, perseverance and discipline.
I committed to speaking to three separate groups of high school seniors along with many other professionals about Occupational Therapy. It seemed a fitting topic since it just so happens to be Occupational Therapy month!
The school provided each speaker with breakfast, and a student escort to take us to our assigned classrooms and show us around the school.
I spoke to each group of students for 25 minutes, explaining what Occupational Therapy is, and encouraging them to experience a "handicap" as a way to open discussion about what it feels like to have physical limitations. I demonstrated various adaptive devices, and explained possible uses for each one. Students had the chance to try out button aides to see if they could manage one handed buttoning. I showed a video entitled ‘Being an Occupational Therapist’ and fielded questions that were inquisitive and insightful. Some students shared that they had received occupational therapy as youngsters and many asked why I chose to become an Occupational Therapist.
I was excited by their enthusiasm and hope that I made a difference in their career path.
-Lisa Davis
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