Acacia Williams
Hometown
Rockhill, New York
Undergraduate Major
African American Studies
Vision for the Profession
After noticing the disparities that exist within traditional medical fields like medicine and physician assistant work, I realized I wanted a career that allowed me to create a more direct, personal impact. Occupational therapy drew me in because of its holistic, client-centered approach and its hands-on role in helping individuals develop the skills they need to thrive in daily life.
I admire the diversity of the cohort and the program's curriculum which integrates ideals of social and occupational justice, equity, advocacy, diversity, and inclusion.
Cultural awareness is essential in occupational therapy, as understanding different backgrounds helps practitioners better serve their patients. Diversity and inclusion (DI) are central pillars of the GW program, shaping both the curriculum and the student experience, which is why it stood out as the ideal place to study OT.
OT gives me the space to be culturally grounded and not to go against my morals or my integrity… OT felt like something I could build and grow with, as opposed to just being in it.
Supported and Growing
The GW OT program prepares students to become compassionate, well-rounded healthcare practitioners by emphasizing the importance of understanding each patient’s cultural, gender, and racial identity and how these factors influence their experiences and care.
The program genuinely supports their students. The professors are always there to answer a question to ensure that students understand to their fullest capabilities.