Doctor of Occupational Therapy Student & Alumni Testimonials

Beth White OTD, OTR/L – Class of 2021
Hometown: Jackson, N.C.
Undergraduate Institution: East Carolina University, Greenville, N.C.
Major: Psychology, Minor: Human Development

I am honored to be a graduate of the inaugural Class of 2021 in the Methodist University OTD program. Choosing Methodist University for occupational therapy school was the best educational decision and such a blessing to me. The experiences and opportunities this program provided have shaped me into the well-rounded, compassionate, evidence-based practitioner that I am today.

I attended East Carolina University for undergraduate with the aspirations of becoming an occupational therapist. When I first began researching programs in North Carolina my freshman year, Methodist University was not among the options since they were beginning their accreditation process. As I began applying my senior year, I discovered Methodist was accepting applications for the inaugural class for an OTD degree. Prior to this, I was unsure of the difference between a Masters and Doctorate entry level degree. As I began researching the difference and the advantages of an OTD, I knew I wanted to apply with the hopes of an invitation for an interview to learn more about the program.

As the interview day approached, I was very nervous because this quickly became an opportunity I knew I wanted to be part of. As the interview day progressed, my nerves were eased by all the friendly staff members and students who assisted with the process. As I toured the facilities and met all the professors, I felt reassurance that I belonged here because Methodist University and its staff felt like family and home. Everyone was so kind throughout the interview and application process, eliciting excitement to begin the challenging journey to becoming an occupational therapist.

As a student in the OTD program, we had many top-notch opportunities both on campus and in the community. Some special experiences that made an impact during my time in the program include cooking various dishes from countries around the world to understand the value of individualized care, creating and implementing a caregiver educational program with videos describing sensations and the impact of sensory processing, and working with physical therapists, social workers, and nurses during interdisciplinary IPE learning cases. We were able to tour local facilities and resources, such Victory Junction, and the aquatic therapy program at Cape Fear Valley Hospital.

Since graduation, I have focused my career in both acute care and outpatient, specifically in pediatrics. Recently, I have had opportunities to begin working with infants in acute care and outpatient, which has quickly become a special interest of mine. I have spent many continuing education hours learning more about infants, feeding, as well as post stroke rehabilitation. My goal is to eventually work in a pediatric acute care facility.

Brittany Preston, OTD, OTR/L – Class of 2023
Hometown: Clayton, N.C.
Undergraduate Institution: Meredith College, Raleigh, N.C.
Major: Exercise Science, Minor: Psychology

I chose Methodist University because of the faculty members’ genuine interest in my career goals during the interview process. The MUOTD program provides leadership opportunities within the program and throughout campus. I was fortunate enough to serve in a few leadership roles (SOTA President, COTAD Rep) while at MU, which have led to many networking and learning opportunities in the OT world and on campus. I was constantly encouraged to take an active role in my development as a therapist with no limits on what I could achieve while being supported by qualified faculty and staff. The faculty and staff within the MUOTD program are exceptional and truly care about the student as an individual first and foremost. The MUOTD program provided fieldwork opportunities at competitive sites that shaped my clinical and critical thinking skills. I feel confident in the skills I obtained and my clinical knowledge to help me as I begin a career as a travel therapist in a variety of settings and school-based staff therapist.

Madison Walton, OTD, OTR/L – Class of 2023
Hometown: Goldsboro, N.C.
Undergraduate Institution: University of Mount Olive, N.C.
Major: Psychology

Prior to OT school, I attended the University of Mount Olive (UMO) where I obtained a bachelor’s degree in psychology. I decided that I wanted to pursue occupational therapy during my sophomore year, and I spent many hours shadowing various settings so that I was well-prepared for what was to come. During my time at UMO, I worked closely with the psychology and exercise science departments to complete three research internships that undoubtedly prepared me for graduate school. I was heavily involved in clubs, intramural sports, honor societies, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. I loved immersing myself in the extracurriculars that UMO offered.

Upon arrival at Methodist University for my interview, I immediately felt welcomed by both the students and staff. I received a handwritten letter from a current student, and the students who guided me to the various interview rooms were friendly and happy to answer any questions I had. The interviews with the faculty felt more conversational, which allowed me to relax and truly enjoy the experience. I was extremely grateful for the hospitality, organization, and welcoming nature of that day. It ultimately solidified my decision to attend Methodist.

At Methodist, I have enjoyed learning from professors with diverse backgrounds and specialties. The courses included a variety of educational strategies, and I felt well-prepared for my fieldwork rotations. The faculty always held space for students to ask questions and readily offered a listening ear. I felt supported both as a student and as a person. The faculty has shaped me into the professional that I am, and I am incredibly grateful. I also enjoyed many opportunities available outside of the classroom. I was a board member of SOTA and Pi Theta, and I loved competing in intramural sports! I will always be grateful for MUOTD, and I know I have lifelong mentors that are only a call away!

Tajze Johnson, Class of 2024
Hometown: Charlotte, N.C.
Undergraduate Institution: Belmont Abbey College, Belmont, N.C.
Major: Independent/Interdisciplinary Studies, Minor: Business Management

I chose to pursue the Occupational Therapy program at Methodist University because of its renowned reputation for excellence in healthcare education, which aligns perfectly with my academic and professional background. After attaining a bachelor’s in interdisciplinary studies with a minor in Business and a concentration in Entrepreneurship from Belmont Abbey College, followed by a master’s in healthcare administration from Purdue University, and completing an Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy at Eastern Virginia, I realized the significance of a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to healthcare.

Methodist University’s Occupational Therapy program offered me a unique opportunity to further refine my skills and knowledge in a field where I can directly impact the lives of diverse individuals facing various health challenges. My experiences as an occupational therapy student have reinforced my passion for addressing chronic illnesses, particularly in areas such as kidney disease, organ transplants, and primary care.

Furthermore, my journey has been characterized by overcoming adversity, a trait that resonates deeply with Methodist University’s values of resilience and determination. During my graduate studies, I had the privilege of conducting capstone research which focused on developing a protocol for implementing switch-adapted and 3D printing devices to aid individuals with upper extremity motor impairments in overcoming environmental barriers. This experience not only honed my research skills but also reinforced my commitment to finding innovative solutions to improve the lives of those with disabilities.

As an occupational therapy practitioner my expertise lies in improving medication adherence in people with chronic health conditions. Methodist University’s program provided the ideal platform for me to further develop this expertise and make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals struggling with chronic illnesses. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the field of occupational therapy and am confident that Methodist University has equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this rewarding profession.

Abigail Veeder, Class of 2024
Hometown: Stedman, N.C.
Undergraduate Institution: Campbell University, Buies Creek, N.C.
Major: Behavioral Science and Psychology

Before OT school, I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Campbell University and worked as a Direct Support Professional. By working with individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, I determined that I wanted to pursue the field of occupational therapy.

When applying to occupational therapy schools, I applied to Methodist since it was close to home and would allow me to commute. The application process was not as daunting as it seemed in the beginning due to the faculty being willing to answer questions when needed. I was also able to shadow at clinics, which solidified my choice of profession. During the interview process, I felt very comfortable and at ease as the faculty were very welcoming and showed their genuine interest in wanting to get to know me.

During my time in the Methodist OTD Program, I have felt supported in all aspects including my research, clinical preparation, Doctoral Experiential Component (DEC), and preparing for boards. Throughout the three years, faculty members have been willing to go the extra mile for students and have created an inclusive learning environment allowing for open communication. With a smaller class size, I was able to connect with all my classmates supporting them in their successes. The Methodist University OTD Program has given me a strong foundation of knowledge in the OT profession and has allowed for growth, personally and professionally.

Leah Strickland, Class of 2026
Hometown: Four Oaks, N.C.
Undergraduate Institution: Liberty University, Lynchburg, Va.
Major: Public Health, Minor: Psychology

My unique journey to becoming an occupational therapist is a testament to the power of faithfulness, perseverance, and the pursuit of my educational dreams. I vividly remember as a sophomore in high school when I initially discovered the profession of occupational therapy. I began pursuing this career through observational experiences and knew that this was exactly where the Lord was calling me. It was the epitome of my dream job as OTs get to support others’ wellbeing through guidance in a meaningful, purposeful, and independent life. After all, life was made purposefully as a beautiful gift from God to encourage one another and enjoy His creation.

I began searching all the details of OT school and what this journey would entail. I immediately realized there would be a lot of preparation beforehand in building a competitive application, making the right academic choices, and navigating this new goal I had made for myself. While considering different programs, I came across MUOTD and was instantly impressed. I began pursuing this program, and every interaction I had with the faculty or staff made me feel important. Eventually, I sat in on a class which ultimately cemented my dreams of becoming an MUOTD student.

It was upon acceptance into Methodist’s program that I tangibly saw my hard work of five years come to fruition. As I think back on my journey to OT school, specifically during the application process, I could not imagine being a student anywhere else but Methodist. Each day, I am so grateful to be surrounded by the most genuine and intentional professors, highly advanced facilities with hands-on lab experiences, and a learning environment that I know is preparing me well to be an effective practitioner. The MUOTD program is constantly serving their students to ensure that the most personalized, applicable, and impactful education is provided. Being an MUOTD student has truly been an incredible blessing and an opportunity that I wish all OT students could experience.

Hannah Wheeless, Class of 2026
Hometown: Garland, N.C.
Undergraduate Institution: Campbell University, Buies Creek, N.C.
Major: Exercise Science, Minor: Psychology

My journey to occupational therapy started at a young age through a dance class for children with disabilities. I learned my passion for working with this population and that led me to the field. I dreamed of coming to Methodist for years because it was the first school to offer a doctorate level program in the state of North Carolina. Methodist would encourage and enable me to grow not only academically, but also spiritually.

On the day of my interview, I was filled with such joy and accomplishment. As each professor asked questions, I found that my values and beliefs of hard work and determination fit perfectly with the program. Methodist University Occupational Therapy Program was my top choice because of the welcoming environment, innovative research, and rigorous curriculum. I knew this program would help me develop the skills needed to be a strong practitioner. I am so thankful for the opportunity to learn knowledge and skills I will carry with me throughout my career. This is an incomparable institution that will nourish your mind and help you flourish into a wonderful OTP.

As a future occupational therapist, I want to provide care to clients that will empower them to change their perspective of life and inspire them to dream big. I will work toward educating myself and others on how to build a fulfilling life through returning to occupations, empowering all to make the most of any situation. I know that through Methodist OTD, I can fulfill my duties. I highly value the unity of faith and inquiry while attending this university. If it were not for the strength and perseverance God has granted me, I would not be here today.