Hoffman at the American Occupational Therapy Association conference
After obtaining her Bachelor of Science in public health from Slippery Rock University, Lily Hoffman (OTD ’25) decided to pursue a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) from the University of Pittsburgh. Now in her second year of the program, she has already taken advantage of many experiences. During her first year, she was able to attend the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) conference in Kansas City, Missouri, where she connected with other practitioners and networked to learn about the many roles that Pitt occupational therapists can hold after they pass their board certification exam, and more importantly--spending time with the Pitt occupational therapy faculty and staff!
OTD students are required to complete two different 12-week clinical fieldwork rotations. Hoffman’s first fieldwork rotation will be at UPMC Passavant, and for her second fieldwork rotation she is excited to be moving to Memphis, Tennessee, to work hands-on with patients at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Read more to learn about Hoffman’s experience in the OTD program thus far and her plans for the future!
Hoffman (left) is all smiles at Walk to end Alzheimer’s
Q: Why did you choose the Pitt OTD program?
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, so I knew I wanted to stay in the city I love. I also knew I wanted to help people, but I was not always sure how. After I shadowed an occupational therapist at a local hospital, I knew that this career would help me change the lives of so many people. I definitely made the right choice! Given Pitt's reputation in occupational therapy education, I knew their program would help me flourish into the clinician I strive to be. I looked at other schools; however, I always knew Pitt was where I felt at home. I was so amazed by the curriculum and the faculty. They are all so well versed in the field of occupational therapy, and I learn so much every day. I am honored to look up to and learn from the faculty here at Pitt.
Q: What does a typical day look like for you as an OTD student?
Each day is different. Currently, I have classes from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday and Wednesday and I attend fieldwork on Thursdays. When I am not at the Occupational Therapy Department for classes and labs at Bridgeside Point, I am a direct care worker and coordinator for a local music program geared toward participants of all ages with chronic illness and disability. In my free time, you can find me with my dog and family.
Hoffman and her mini-Australian labradoodle Charlotte (but they call her Charlie)!
Q: If you could give one piece of advice for a student interested in pursuing this program, what would it be?
Research the programs you are interested in and ask questions.
Each program is so different, which can make it difficult when making a final decision. Once you are in a program, take advantage of every opportunity given. Each experience can help guide you through and add to your occupational therapy journey. For your application, make sure you take time on your personal statement. It is important and can help you stand out.
Hoffman (back row, third from the left) and Assistant Professor Erin Mathia (back row, second from left) among other OTD students and ROC
Q: What has been your favorite course so far?
There are two courses that I have found very interesting and applicable to the area of OT that I plan on going into. Neurobehavioral Science is taught by Adjunct Instructor Hadley Dean. We spend time learning about changes in the brain that directly affect the body and our actions day to day. We also learn about different neurological conditions such as a stroke and spinal cord injury. Developmental Theory and Practice is taught by Assistant Professor Angela Caldwell, and it is primarily focused on pediatrics. We learn how a child develops over the lifespan and what interventions can be used when working with children and adolescents. Both professors are incredible and have made a lasting impact on my education.
Assistant Professor Avital Isenberg is my academic advisor. Along with teaching us many different courses she has been there to help guide me in my journey as an OT student at Pitt. She is amazing and I’m thankful I have her!
Q: What are some of your plans for after you graduate?
Throughout my time at Pitt, I have been given many wonderful opportunities. I look forward to my remaining time in the program and will always be Pitt Proud! I plan to work in an inpatient pediatric hospital while working toward a certification in neonatal therapy upon graduation!
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Want to learn more about Occupational Therapy at SHRS? You can visit the program page to learn more or reach out to an enrollment specialist now at enroll@shrs.pitt.edu.
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Published October 9, 2023
Updated October 10, 2023