Hello,

Governors State University’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy program has been instrumental in fostering both my personal and professional growth as an Occupational Therapist and University Lecturer. The program has challenged me to contemplate and develop actionable plans for growth in my specific professional and personal roles. The faculty prioritizes my academic, professional, and personal well-being, supporting my research areas and success in my specific areas of practice.

The thoughtfully designed and adaptable course assignments align directly with each student's context, equipping me to enhance outcomes in my workplace and for my recipients of care. The program also offers relevant and current readings, allowing me to build on my existing knowledge in research, leadership, and other areas.

Participating in the program alongside colleagues in a cohort model has provided a strong sense of community, camaraderie, and organic peer-to-peer mentorship. This model has been a cornerstone of support, fostering incredible peer relationships. While the program is demanding, it is also flexible and designed for working adults, allowing me to balance my work commitments and personal life effectively. Overall, the program’s structure and support systems have made it an invaluable part of my journey as an Occupational Therapist and University Lecturer.

It truly feels like a gift to be an educator at Governors State University with the privilege to open doors for others. The students begin their Occupational Therapy education with rich stories and unique characteristics that make them incredible individuals. They all have a palpable longing to help develop, heal, and uplift others. Through education, we have the privilege to empower them to develop an outstanding professional skill set and knowledge base in Occupational Therapy to achieve those goals.

Occupational Therapy, for me, is a way to carry forward the legacy of compassion and empathy. Our classrooms and clinics become hubs of transformation, where empathy and expertise converge. Occupations have been described as life itself. Through education, we champion personal and professional excellence, building our collective ability to influence meaningful outcomes and drive real, important change through the art and science of Occupational Therapy.

Best,

Dustin Hogan, DrOT