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The most important thing I learned at Duke was how to think like a clinical researcher—asking the right questions, designing meaningful studies, and translating data into impact.

I hope to advance scientific discovery and innovation by promoting clear, accessible scientific communication. Strong science matters and so does how we share it.

I want to explore how epidemiologists, implementation scientists, and global health professionals can co-create sustainable, community-driven interventions for low-resource settings like The Gambia—ones that enable families to stay healthy without sacrificing their livelihoods

I chose Duke because it has one of the oldest and most well-established programs in computational biology. Beyond academics, I appreciated the positive and welcoming atmosphere during recruitment, as well as the temperate climate and affordable cost of living—important considerations for life during a PhD.

Every day, I’m blown away by what I get to see and learn. From the advanced equipment we’re trained on, to the knowledge and mentorship of the professionals I get to work alongside, it’s truly inspiring. Duke has exceeded my expectations in every way, and I feel genuinely lucky to be a part of it!

I would not be where I am today without excellent mentorship at every stage of my journey. This includes when I first changed my career from automotive to medicine as well as current day from residents and faculty that I have been honored to work with.

Beyond learning theoretical foundations and developing a comprehensive toolkit of biostatistical methods, I learned how to think like a researcher and how to collaborate effectively – especially in a field characterized by team science

Since graduating from the Duke Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work in various orthopaedic clinics across Indiana, Virginia, and North Carolina. I am a full-time hand therapist at the Raleigh Hand to Shoulder Center. This role blends my passion for upper extremity rehabilitation with the fulfillment of helping patients regain function and independence. A Career Built on Trust & Collaboration

Under the golden glow of a spring morning, the Duke Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program marked a momentous occasion—the graduation of its Class of 2025. The swaying branches of the willow oaks outside Duke Chapel seemed to echo the movement of time and transformation as forty-three graduates proudly accepted their doctoral shawls and diplomas.

At the 2025 American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) INSPIRE Conference, Duke Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) faculty members were honored for their outstanding contributions. Their dedication to advancing occupational therapy through leadership, research, and mentorship was celebrated with prestigious awards, solidifying Duke’s reputation as a leader in the field. AOTA Roster of Fellows Recognition