Zahraa Khanafer (MSOT ’23), graduate of the Pitt MS in Occupational Therapy program
Zahraa Khanafer (MSOT ’23) grew up in Kuwait and practiced occupational therapy there after receiving her bachelor’s degree. Here, she shares why she chose to study abroad at Pitt OT and how transformative the program has been on her career! The Master of Science in Occupational Therapy degree at the University of Pittsburgh is a two-term, 30-credit post-professional program designed for occupational therapists educated in the United States or internationally, who want to advance their knowledge and skills in a career they already love.
“Our Master of Science in Occupational Therapy students are warmly welcomed into the Pitt OT family prior to arriving in Pittsburgh through our unique mentorship program that connects current MS in OT students with our incoming cohort to provide personalized guidance about living in Pittsburgh and the opportunities that are available. The MS in OT program offers students the opportunity to personalize their plan of study and provides unique clinical experiences in both traditional and community settings and leadership opportunities in student organizations along with our OTD students”
- Jennifer White, assistant professor
The program provides a unique and personalized experience to meet each individual’s particular areas of interest. Students may choose specific clinical practice areas such as children and youth, rehabilitation and disability, or work and industry. Department of Occupational Therapy faculty personalize each student's plan of study using elective courses and clinical and/or research preceptorships. Clinical preceptorships provide learning in an occupational therapy practice setting so that students can become familiar with the U.S. health care system. Research preceptorships provide learning in an OT department research laboratory to expose students to rehabilitation research.
Zahraa, tell us about your current job. What do you find exciting and rewarding?
Shifting from four years of work in a pediatric outpatient setting to adult acute care represents a notable change in my professional journey. While my past experience equipped me with solid skills in pediatrics, working in acute care at West Virginia University Medicine Princeton Community Hospital is both exciting and fulfilling. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a difference in the lives of patients facing health issues. The fast-paced environment keeps me engaged and motivated, and guiding patients as they start their journey with therapy is rewarding.
Tell us about your background before coming to Pitt. What made you want to attend a graduate program?
I am a Lebanese citizen who was raised in Kuwait. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy at Kuwait University in 2018 and dedicated four years to working there. My passion for occupational therapy deepened over time, motivating me to pursue further education to expand my knowledge and experience in the field. Also, I knew that attending a graduate program abroad would not only allow me to broaden my knowledge, but also provide me with insight into how occupational therapy is applied in diverse cultural contexts and within the U.S. health care system.
Why did you want to come to Pitt for this Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program? Is there anything about Pitt's program in particular that made it the first/best choice for you?
Pitt's program stood out to me as the ideal choice due to its strong focus on hands-on learning and its commitment to providing diverse clinical experiences through the clinical plan of study. Among the many ways this program distinguishes itself by providing some courses that aid in personal development as a therapist where it focuses on self-awareness, inclusion and self-understanding.
Zahraa Khanafer, posing in her white coat
Did you feel supported by the faculty during your time in the program?
I felt overwhelmingly supported by everyone in the program, from the administrative staff to the faculty. Their collective encouragement, guidance and assistance were instrumental throughout my academic journey. Whether it was the professors who provided invaluable mentorship or the administrative staff who offered ongoing assistance and support, I consistently experienced a supportive and nurturing environment that contributed significantly to my success in the program.
“Zahraa seamlessly embodied the role of a team player and cheerleader, skillfully organizing her classmates and adeptly liaising their needs to faculty members, fostering a cohesive learning environment with her organizational prowess and supportive attitude.”
- Amit Sethi, associate professor and director, Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy program
Did you feel that the program provided you with options that were tailored for your educational experience and specialties?
Certainly! Through specialized coursework, clinical experiences, hands-on technology labs and elective opportunities, I was able to explore and deepen my understanding in areas aligned with my interests. I found the program to be responsive to my needs and supportive of my professional development in occupational therapy.
What would you like to share with students who may be interested in the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program?
The program offers a fantastic opportunity to delve into the field of occupational therapy. It provides a supportive environment with dedicated faculty, diverse experiences, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. I encourage prospective students to fully engage in the program, take advantage of its resources and embrace the learning opportunities available. Pursuing the Post Professional Master of Science in Occupational Therapy degree at Pitt was a transformative experience for me, and I'm confident it would offer the same enriching experience to you as well!
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Continue reading our series on MSOT alumni with Tahani Almutairi!
Learn more about the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program by visiting our website or reaching out to our enrollment specialist at enroll@shrs.pitt.edu today!