I was born and raised in Mississippi and now live in XXXX, Florida. I hold a B.S. degree in Biology awarded by XXXX University, Florida in 2003. My goal is to complete the M.O.T. degree so that I can be an agent for positive change in the lives of others.

 I am a farm girl, brought up with my two brothers in an environment where physical work was a natural part of life from early childhood. I was regarded as intelligent but this was demonstrated in practical ways rather than academically. I did not extend myself at high school and I merely ‘coasted’ while there. My family’s ambitions for me extended only as far as marriage and motherhood but I harbored dreams of college.

 Following an early and short marriage, I joined the Navy. I became one of the very first females to work as a Machinery Repairman. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the service. I served for four years, including service at sea and deployment in the first Gulf War. My service taught me effective teamwork, self-discipline and adaptability which have served me well since leaving.

 When I left the Navy, I was eventually able to pursue my college ambition and chose Biology as my major because I had realized that the body is essentially a sophisticated and complex machine and this idea fascinated me, I wanted to know how I ‘worked’! I enjoyed my studies enormously. Once I graduated, I was unsure what I wanted to do and eventually took a job as a ‘compensation adjuster’ with an insurance company. This job related to the compensation and medical care of injured workers. I became aware of the often serious consequences of injuries and the therapies available to assist patients. It was at this point that I became aware of the value of occupational therapy and it struck me that this was a way in which I could  ‘make a difference’ in the lives of others in a direct way. I undertook extensive research into the profession by talking to Occupational Therapists and observing them at work. I concluded that this was an ideal career choice for me indeed more a vocation than a choice. I am very excited at the prospect of studying, qualifying and practicing. I also carefully researched the programs available and concluded that St. Augustine’s is the ideal ‘fit’ for my needs.

 I have carefully considered the qualities required of an effective therapist and genuinely believe that I possess them.  I have a deeply held desire to help people and to assist them in helping themselves, I am a good listener, I have determination, I am patient, I relate well to others, I have a creative and ‘hands on’ approach to problem solving, and, not least, I have a sense of humor. I have happily worked and socialized with people of many different cultural and social backgrounds during my service, work and academic career.

 If my application is successful, I undertake to apply myself fully to excelling in the program and becoming equipped to undertake the role of a very caring and effective therapist in the future.