top of page

Why Occupational Therapy?

  • Lauren de Graaf
  • Sep 30, 2018
  • 2 min read

I'm fascinated by humanity. Often times I will hear a reply to a statement or read something and think, "How do you get there? Like how did you arrive at that conclusion?" Sometimes it's because the statement itself is so odd or random but other times I actually want to understand the thought process and motivation behind that remark.

So I went to Art School. Now, I know you're going to think, "I bet there were some characters there!" I won't lie to you, there were but most were so delightful. But this was when the interest in understanding human thought sparked and as I went further into my education, the flame only grew. Fast forward four years and I graduate from Rosebud School of the Arts with an FRSA (fellow of Rosebud School of the Arts, a guild member). My thesis was remounted twice, I did a few shows and moved to Calgary.

I like Calgary, always have, always will. But it's hard to find a community in Calgary and I work at a Lumber Store. So I had to search elsewhere than work for a new friend group. Needless to say I had a few nights to myself.

I was approached to be a Developmental Aide by the loveliest family that I had know for years and I jumped at the opportunity! I would go to all the appointments with her, Speech Therapy, Physio Therapy, and Occupational Therapy. Then I would make sure that we did the activities at home. This increased my interest in humanity and I was hungry to learn more. 

I originally looked into Speech Therapy. Actors are speakers, just like anyone else, but they have to be good otherwise no one comes to the show. So there was the technical similarity. But that's just it, it was too technical. So not Speech Therapy.

Physio is interesting but not as behaviour based. So Occupational Therapy was the clear choice. From what I understand it's encouraging people who have trouble doing day to day routine things while still being removed and aware of how the human body is designed. I can do all of those things! And I happen to love all of those things! This is great!

However, the Masters Program that I want to get into is extremely academic so it's going to be a little different from Art School. But I keep thinking if this is going to help me be the best Occupational Therapist that I can be, I'm going to do it! I'm going to push through it. Because ultimately, there are people in the world who are looked at differently because they communicate differently. I don't imagine they feel all that safe in those situations or because of the challenges they face. And I want to change that. I want to help them. 

Also, if anyone has any suggestions for any videos, notes or anything to help me to get through Statistics faster, please send them my way and I will send you so much virtual love! Or cookies. Maybe both.

Love & Prayers,

Lauren xo


 
 
 

Comments


Recent Posts

© 2016 by Lauren de Graaf

. Proudly created with Wix.com

bottom of page