My Level II Fieldwork in the school system was an incredibly rewarding experience. Over several weeks, I had the opportunity to work with both elementary and middle school students, including those with intellectual disabilities, in a dynamic and diverse educational setting. I developed and implemented interventions to support students’ participation, engagement, and success in the classroom, while strengthening my skills in collaboration, creativity, and individualized problem-solving.

A key part of this experience was performing standardized assessments to evaluate students’ functional, cognitive, and sensory abilities. Collecting this data allowed me to inform individualized intervention plans and monitor progress. I also had the opportunity to present assessment results during IEP meetings, communicating findings to teachers, parents, and interdisciplinary team members. This experience enhanced my confidence in presenting complex information clearly and advocating for students’ needs, while emphasizing the importance of collaboration and evidence-based decision-making.

I was also able to complete a special project aimed at supporting classroom environments. I educated staff on flexible seating options for sensory-seeking students and the use of colored noise to enhance focus and attention. Implementing these strategies helped create more inclusive, supportive classrooms and demonstrated how small environmental modifications can significantly impact student engagement and learning.

I was fortunate to learn from an exceptional fieldwork educator whose guidance and mentorship challenged me to grow both professionally and personally. Working alongside the staff in two different locations allowed me to learn in ways I never imagined, and to witness firsthand the impact occupational therapy can have on helping children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. This fieldwork solidified my passion for OT and reinforced my commitment to supporting individuals in reaching their fullest potential.

My Level II Fieldwork at Beth Israel's inpatient acute care hospital was one of the most transformative experiences of my OTD journey. Over 12 weeks, I was immersed in a fast-paced, high-acuity environment that continually challenged me to grow both clinically and personally. I primarily worked with patients on the Neuroscience Specialty Care Unit (NIMU), working with ICU-level patients recovering from stroke and managing complex neurological conditions. This experience strengthened my clinical reasoning, taught me to prioritize and adapt interventions in real time, and deepened my understanding of acute care occupational therapy, from early mobilization and activity tolerance to interdisciplinary collaboration.

Beyond my primary unit, I had the opportunity to expand my learning across a variety of populations, including plastic and reconstructive surgery, oncology, cardiac care, traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injury (SCI), and general medical conditions. Each exposure broadened my skill set and highlighted the versatility and impact of occupational therapy in diverse acute care settings.

This fieldwork was made even more meaningful by the incredible mentorship I received. I was guided by two amazing fieldwork educators whose knowledge, patience, and encouragement pushed me to grow in ways I never imagined. Collaborating with a fellow student from another university also transformed the experience, allowing us to learn from each other, navigate complex cases together, and celebrate progress as a team.

Above all, this experience reinforced my passion for acute care OT. Supporting patients during some of their most vulnerable moments, helping them regain independence, and witnessing their progress reminded me why I chose this profession. I left this fieldwork not only with strengthened clinical skills but also with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for my future as an occupational therapist.