Meet the MScOT Class of 2026!
Four of our incoming Master of Science in Occupational Therapy students share what inspired them to pursue a career in occupational therapy, and what they are looking forward to in the program.
Abby Lawrence-Valeriani, UTSG campus
After completing my bachelor's degree in neuroscience and psychology at the University of Guelph, I took a year off to explore occupational therapy. One of my favorite opportunities was working at a center for children and youth with autism where I led after-school and weekend programs, including a cooking class, a mindfulness group, and a teen hangout group. It was rewarding to see how these programs had an immense impact on participants' friendships, independence, and overall well-being.
One of the pivotal experiences that led me to pursue occupational therapy was volunteering in a paediatric clinic. Seeing the lead occupational therapist’s creativity as she incorporated the child’s interests into the session to make it fun was so inspiring. I was in awe of how her sessions helped her clients achieve wellness in a way that was meaningful for them as an individual. I knew this is what I wanted to do one day, too.
Over the next two years, I am excited to meet and collaborate with my classmates and future colleagues. Our diverse backgrounds led us to this program and I can’t wait to learn from everyone. I’m also looking forward to exploring the many areas within the profession during my placements.
When I am not studying, I love going to different workout classes, especially spin and Pilates. I love cooking and baking and am always trying out new recipes. Since moving to Toronto, I have been spending lots of time exploring the city…I have been taking advantage of all the coffee shops and restaurants that Toronto has to offer!
Antonette Ong, UTSG campus
Before coming to U of T, I completed my bachelor’s degree in Honours Life Sciences at McMaster University where I served as a research assistant for the Aging Swallow Research Lab.
I have also been working at a retirement home to help care for individuals with dementia, and have volunteered with organizations that provide help, research and education on dementia for people living in poverty.
Aside from these experiences, I was inspired to pursue a career in occupational therapy after my dad had major surgery. Throughout his recovery, I witnessed how his occupational therapist treated and supported him. His occupational therapist and the rest of his health care team helped him to fully recover and regain his independence. I learned how vital the role and leadership of occupational therapists are in patient care.
Over the next two years, I look forward to learning more about occupational therapy and how to apply our knowledge in clinical settings. I am also excited to do more research in this field and, of course, to meet and collaborate with my colleagues and make new friends!
Outside of school I enjoy travelling, playing with my dog, hanging out with friends and watching my favourite shows like The Office, Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Modern Family.
Bronwyn Allen, UTM campus
I studied kinesiology at U of T and theatre at York University where I learned about human movement, anatomy and creativity.
After my studies, I volunteered with a paediatric occupational therapist, worked as a Wellness Coordinator at an active aging community and a Medical Legal Assistant for an interdisciplinary team of neurologists and other health care professionals. Through these experiences, I learned how to support vulnerable populations and help them to reconnect with their environment.
I came across occupational therapy unexpectedly. I was researching different careers and came across an arts-based occupational therapist online and saw their practice supports individuals’ mental health. It was inspiring to see how occupational therapists can transform communities, support people with challenges and provide opportunities to promote resilience and health.
Through my volunteer and work experiences, I realized I want to pursue occupational therapy so I can support individuals’ abilities, restore function and improve their overall well-being.
Over the next two years, I am looking forward to learning more about the diverse field of occupational therapy, fieldwork placements and making new friendships in the program!
Outside of school, I love being active, so I have been enjoying long-distance running and training for new races. I also love to attend concerts, travel and spend time with family and friends.
Laiba Adnan, UTSG campus
Prior to starting the program I completed my bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences at Toronto Metropolitan University. After graduating, I worked as a research assistant at a community health centre and as a medical assistant at a clinic while volunteering as a Crisis Responder for Kids Help Phone.
My work, volunteering, and personal experiences made me realize that helping people with their long-term mental, physical, social and environmental health would be an incredibly meaningful and rewarding career, which is why I am pursuing occupational therapy. The versatility of this field and the ability to help individuals aligns with my interest in making a positive difference.
Over the next two years, I look forward to growing personally and professionally by immersing myself into the rich occupational therapy curriculum, exploring different specialties in the profession through practicum placements and finding my niche. I also look forward to building strong connections with my classmates and professors and making great memories.
Outside of school I like spending time with my family, friends, and my four birds! I also like to take long walks in nature, pursue my passion for art through drawing and sketching, and be explorative with baking and trying new cafes and restaurants.