Hi Everyone! My name is Oviya Manivakkam Vivekanand and I am thrilled to share my journey in this OTD program at Western Oregon University. I graduated with a B.S. in Physiology in 2022 from Seattle Pacific University. My original plan was to attend medical school, but due to personal reasons, I moved back home. While researching “what’s next?,” I discovered occupational therapy. 

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned from my clinical experience is that there’s so much more to a person than just the reason they’re seeking medical help. This is how I’ve realized how crucial OTs are in supporting people beyond their physical or medical conditions. As a POC who has lived in different countries and encountered a diverse population, I felt a deep calling to pursue this profession. I chose to attend WOU because of its Mission and Vision statement, which values DEI, holistic care, and advocacy. 

A few of my favorite occupations include playing tennis, crocheting and coloring. To be honest, I only picked up some of these l after starting at WOU. Being here has opened my eyes to the significance of self-care activities and hobbies in promoting health and well-being. The balanced lifestyle I now lead is thanks to the inspiring professors at WOU, who have helped me see my life from a new perspective. I am currently interested in pediatrics, and exploring how I can best help children –  whether addressing sensory needs, mental health or other developmental needs, I am confident that this program will guide me toward finding my specific path. If I can change even one child’s life, I will feel that I’m taking a meaningful step toward making a difference in the world. 

My name is Aaron Hanbile, and I am a first year OTD student at Western Oregon University (WOU). Born and raised in Brentwood, Northern California  I came to WOU as a freshman in 2017 to run track and study Exercise Science. Some of my favorite occupations are spending time with my cat, cooking, traveling, and playing video games with my friends. I heard about Occupational Therapy from a professor who became my mentor in my second year of college, and I instantly was drawn to the field. I also found passion in gerontology and saw first hand how OTs have an impact on that population. Once I finished undergrad I was told Western had been approved for an OTD program, and knowing I would be a part of the inaugural doctorate program was something I’d be proud of for the rest of my life. When I hit the field I aim to practice in Adult Promotional/ Preventative Health and Home Modification, and I know this program will guide me to the correct path. This program is dedicated to giving rise to passionate and dedicated individuals who believe in change, and see occupational therapy as the force to enact justice.