Occupational Therapy Program
Student Perspectives

The OT program is like one big family. The professors are great and genuinely care about the students. They would go out of their way for every one of us. Since my very first day, I felt like I fit in. I love it here!
—Cari Cullam, 1st Year OT Student

I like Stony Brook's Occupational Therapy program because of its prestigous reputation, and I know I am receiving a great education by being a student here.
—Kristen, 1st Year OT Student

The reason why I love the OT program in Stony Brook is because of the dedication of the faculty and friendly environment.
—Jonathan Chung, 1st Year OT Student

I have been to a lot of schools. But, I finally found a home at Stony Brook. The faculty actually wants you to succeed, and you’re not just a number to them.
—Kristina, 1st Year OT Student

I chose to become a Stony Brook Occupational Therapy student because the school had an amazing reputation. Stony Brook had proven to be a school full of bright minds and caring faculty. Now, being a student there, I can agree 100%, and I find the professors and faculty to be extremely caring and helpful. They give their all to see another one of their graduating classes be at the top. Being a student here, I have found myself a part of a great group of peers and professors, and although its just the beginning, I have learned so much.
—Lori Petroski, 1st year OT student

I have truly enjoyed my experience thus far in the Stony Brook University Occupational Therapy program; I am exceptionally grateful for the decision I made to apply to this program! Each class within the program covers a vast amount of information that helps to prepare us for the clinical world. Fieldwork grants us the opportunity to apply the knowledge that we work so hard to learn within the classroom. The faculty strives to help us achieve our goal of one day becoming successful, licensed occupational therapists. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a wonderful school, community and program. I have formed many relationships that I am confident will last a lifetime, and have met people that I would be honored to work with in the future.
—Lauren Hanly, 2nd Year OT Student

Having completed my first year at Stony Brook University’s Occupational Therapy Program, I can say that the education that I have received has left me eager to learn more. The academic work has challenged me and allowed me to collaborate with other students, as members of a team. I have been given the opportunity to grow and learn and apply the skills that have been acquired in my first year here. This practical experience will provide me with the fundamentals that are needed to become a successful practitioner. The faculty, diverse in their experience, is helpful, knowledgeable, and open. They are able to share their clinical skills to enrich the learning experience for all students, bringing this learning process outside the walls of the classroom. I anxiously await the prospects that lie before me as an Occupational Therapy graduate from Stony Brook University!
—Erica L. Heidt, 2nd Year OT Student

The Stony Brook Occupational Therapy Program introduced me to a new world of unique experiences. The professors here became our mentors, and our fellow students become our family. This is a great opportunity to work with a diverse group of individuals.
—Elizabeth Salomon, 2nd year occupational therapy student

My experience at Stony Brook has far exceeded my expectations. The dedication of the staff and faculty is amazing. I am so grateful and honored to be part of the Stony Brook Occupational Therapy Program. I am very excited and am looking forward to my future as an occupational therapist.
—Patricia Ciccone, 2nd year OT student

Stony Brook is a wonderful university that offers great academic courses as well as opportunities to participate in socially relevant causes that help the community. Faculty have a wealth of knowledge in various areas of occupational therapy that they are eager to share with students. Everyone interested in helping others through the field of occupational therapy should come to Stony Brook.
—Larissa Hyde, 2nd year OT student

The Occupational Therapy Program at Stony Brook University stands out from all others for the following reason: high quality education for a third of the price. It offers challenging courses that explore a variety of areas associated with the OT profession. The program equips you with the background and knowledge base you’ll need to become a successful occupational therapist.
—Kathy Pun, 2nd year OT student

My experience at Stony Brook University was everything that I expected. The SBU Occupational Program has lived up to its reputation of challenging courses, friendly rapport with professors, great friends, a variety of opportunities for fieldwork, and an excellent education. All of these qualities will make us knowledgeable and caring future occupational therapists.
—Karen Grefe, 2nd year OT student

...let me count the ways.
These are just loose thoughts about the OT program.

What I like most about the program is the people I have met, both faculty and students alike. Many friendships have been forged and connections made that will last a lifetime.

Sometimes I am amazed by the fact that the faculty members are so knowledgeable and wonder how could I ever get to their level. But I know with the experience I will gain in the field and the academic instruction I receive from these professors, I will achieve the same.
—Kona, 2nd Year OT Student

Stony Brook has been a wonderful opportunity for me to advance my education and career in the world of occupational therapy. I knew I would be coming here even when I was becoming a COTA at Suffolk Community College back in 2004. I am proud and honored to be part of this wonderful profession, and I feel the same way about getting my education here at Stony Brook. The school can be tough, but I feel Stony Brook is well rounded and all this knowledge can only enhance my health profession career.

What can be better than helping an individual do something they thought they could never do again? What is better then helping people accomplish their goals? The job has endless benefits that will leave each and every one of us more satisfied with life.
—Kristy L. Sanabria, COTA/OTS, 2nd Year OT Student