By Dr. Luis Arabit, Assistant Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy
Since the start of the Spring 2024 semester, the Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) at San José State University (SJSU) has been buzzing with activity, dedicated to fostering community, peer education, fundraising, and collaboration between students and faculty. Their journey began on February 2, 2024, with a CommunOT Picnic/Field Day. Despite the rain forcing a shift from the SJSU lawn grounds to a classroom, the event was a hit. Both masters and doctoral OT students, along with faculty, participated enthusiastically in OT Olympic-designed games, forging bonds and strengthening teamwork.
The momentum continued with a Kinesiotaping workshop on February 3, led by a passionate Pediatric Occupational Therapist. Masters and doctoral students came together to learn foundational skills, discovering the therapeutic benefits of Kinesiotaping in providing support and reducing pain and swelling.
On February 9, fifteen masters students volunteered at “Night to Shine,” hosted by the Tim Tebow Foundation, a prom event benefiting children and young adults with special needs. Accompanying honored guests, they spread joy and assisted with activities throughout the evening.
Then came the highlight of February: the inaugural OT Valentine’s Prom Night on February 16, organized by SOTA’s AOTA representatives. With attendees donning semi-formal attire, the event sold 133 tickets, raising $1,402 for the AOTA student conference fund, AOTPAC, and SOTA general funds. The night was filled with dancing, dinner, and various activities, culminating in the crowning of the Prom King and Queen.
March and April saw more community-building efforts with “Social at Guildhouse” events for first and second-year students. But SOTA didn’t stop there. On March 19-20, they hosted a two-day garage sale, raising funds for the MSOT 2024 graduating class celebration. Donated items flew off the shelves, from clothing to games, all contributing to the cause.
The grand finale came on April 2 with the Spring Apparel Fundraiser, which raised an impressive $2,281 for SJSU OT Clinics and their clients. The funds will go toward purchasing essential items for clients undergoing OT interventions, a testament to SOTA’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Through their tireless efforts, SOTA demonstrated the power of unity, compassion, and dedication in the pursuit of bettering communities and enriching lives.
There are many more educational events that were scheduled in April, and they include a Workshop on Women’s Health, Prenatal and Mental Health and a Workshop on Interviewing, Negotiation, & Mentorship Post graduation. The masters and doctoral OT students have been active and on the move since the start of the semester coordinating numerous departmental and on campus events. They are caring, dynamic, energetic, and tireless OT students. Most of all, they are the future of Occupational Therapy! Thank you SOTA for all you do! The future for Occupational Therapy is bright!
In the dynamic realm of health and human sciences, our students are not merely learners; they are catalysts for change, engaging in multifaceted roles of learning, research, advocacy, and clinical practice. Despite encountering formidable challenges along their academic journeys, these resilient individuals exhibit unwavering determination and grit. Whether immersed in groundbreaking research projects, passionately practicing with and advocating for marginalized clients and communities, or diligently honing their clinical skills, our students embody the spirit of perseverance and excellence. Through their tenacity and dedication, they not only navigate through personal struggles but also emerge as empowered graduates poised to be leaders who will make a meaningful impact in their health and human science fields. WE CONNECT PASSION TO PURPOSE.
