Meet the students of the College of Public Health and Health Professions, a diverse group dedicated to improving health and well-being in communities around the world. These students come from various backgrounds, united by their passion for health and their commitment to making a positive impact. They bring unique perspectives and experiences to their studies, preparing to become the next generation of health professionals who will address pressing health challenges and advance their field.
Meet: Andrea Peña
Program: Doctor of Occupational Therapy
Hometown: Parkland, Florida
Educational background: UF Bachelor of Health Science
Why did you decide to join your program?
I decided to join this program because it reflects the values I hold as both a student and an individual. The UF OTD program embodies guided learning, strong support and meaningful relationships between students, faculty and staff. It offers opportunities to deepen our knowledge of Occupational Therapy in areas such as leadership, research, advocacy, service and education.
I chose to become a UF OTD student because I value forming connections with patients who are navigating difficult and uncertain transitions in their lives. My goal as a future occupational therapist is to provide support that resonates with each patient, collaborate with them to set meaningful occupational goals, and take the time to ask what matters most to them and how we can work together to get there.
The UF OTD program fosters this passion for client-centered care through its curriculum, hands-on experiences and mentorship across cohorts. I am grateful and excited to be part of the UF OTD family.
What have been some of your favorite moments in your program?
Some of my favorite memories in the program have come from the relationships and friendships I’ve built within my cohort.
I’ve loved providing free OT services to clients in the community through the UF OT Equal Access Clinic. The EAC network is unique to the college, as it allows several health disciplines to connect with clients across Alachua County and provide free medical/health services to those facing barriers to accessing health care. Sharing the love I have for OT, educating patients on how our services can impact their recovery, and connecting with our clients and their families has been an unforgettable experience. Seeing our patients grow and watching my peers lead therapy sessions under faculty supervision has been incredibly inspiring. I feel very honored to be a part of this organization.
I have also enjoyed serving as the president of the Student Occupational Therapy Association this past year. In that role, I worked alongside an amazing board of OT students to create professional development workshops, mentor–mentee programs for first and second-year students, and service events that connected us with both local pediatric and adult populations. I’ve also loved participating in the social events hosted by SOTA, including Friendsgiving, World OT Day Potluck and SOTA kickball games for students and faculty.
Another meaningful experience has been serving as an OTD Ambassador, where I’ve had the opportunity to give prospective and accepted students tours of our campus and share insights into our program. This role has been especially impactful because I remember being in their shoes not too long ago. Being able to offer guidance, reassurance and support has felt incredibly special and fulfilling.
A final highlight has been connecting with students in other health professional programs and supporting their academic success and organizational events. These experiences have helped me feel part of a larger, collaborative health care community while growing as a student and future clinician.
What do you plan to do with your degree?
I plan on working toward becoming a Certified Hand Therapist after graduation, as I’m passionate about helping individuals restore function and regain independence through upper-extremity rehabilitation.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love to spend time with my family and friends, go outside for walks and runs, explore different bagel and coffee shops, go to the movies, host game nights, watch TV shows like “Survivor” or “Dancing with the Stars,” and attend/watch as many UF basketball games as I can.
What would you like to share with others who may be considering the same program?
I would highly encourage anyone considering the program to attend a UF OTD info session or on-campus tour to learn more about what UF OTD has to offer. These experiences are typically led by both faculty and students, making them a great opportunity to ask questions and get an authentic feel for the UF OTD culture. Everyone you meet is excited to share their experiences and their passion for occupational therapy.
This program has been such a blessing and an incredible experience. It was my dream program and it has exceeded my expectations.
Want to learn more?
Learn more about the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program.
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