My entire life I wanted nothing more than to be a high school band director. Through many years of participating in band, I developed a strong passion for working in a fast-paced, demanding environment, and guiding others while maintaining the essential element of teamwork. It is disappointing to witness instructors express such disdain toward their educational career when the experience was so invigorating and enriching for myself. However, until the second year of my undergraduate career, the academic curriculum for music education was not so fulfilling. After reflecting on the aspects of teaching that make it so special, I decided that a career in the medical field as an Occupational Therapist paralleled those values fairly well. What I did not expect was a fondness for science and profound love for learning. Despite the implications of the picture (see right), I found myself genuinely enjoying my classes and research, and as a result, leaned closer toward my decision. 
Upon completion of a degree in Occupational Therapy, I would like to work toward a specialization in neuroscience and/or paediatrics and utilize my experiences to hone the skills necessary to succeed within the field. Although the true goal of helping others can be practised at any time, no matter the extent of each action, this accumulation of knowledge will allow me to go beyond the abilities of the average (wo)man. Within my lifetime, I hope to reciprocate the help that is given and contribute to the act of goodwill. Ultimately, there is nothing more fulfilling than seeing the progress and results one can make over time through effort and hard work. The foundation and epitome of occupational therapy are to give back the means for one to engage in meaningful activities, and by extension, the reattainment of his or her identity. The true reward of this practice lies in being able to witness growth, development, and a spark of happiness in others; something that one can indefinitely strive for.~ Pam ♡
