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Building the OT Bridge: Building Knowledge and Awareness Across MSI Campuses

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Abstract Aims: Within the available body of research, students widely report a lack of knowledge and awareness of occupational therapy when compared to other health professions. The objective of this study was to build knowledge and awareness of occupational therapy among undergraduate college students attending Minority-serving Institutions (MSIs). Methods: In this survey study, the researcher created educational material to increase knowledge and awareness of occupational therapy. Participants received material through various delivery methods. Their satisfaction with the material was assessed by comparing results between two phases: Phase 1, before the material was altered, and Phase 2, after the material was altered using participant feedback. Supplemental program materials, pre-occupational therapy links, and a social media page were created to reach a wider array of students through different channels. Results: Overall, students rated the amount of information as just the right amount and reported gaining the ability to educate friends and family on the difference between PT and OT after receiving educational material. Social media engagement and interactions also increased throughout the research period, reaching over 2000 individuals. Conclusion: Building knowledge and awareness of OT appears feasible through directed efforts. Students preferred in-person interaction to virtual interaction when receiving material and appeared far more interested and responsive in more trusted classroom-style settings. Although educational materials and informational sessions appear critical for building this exposure, efforts to increase reach and to form and maintain professional collaboration with prospective OT students, programs, and institutions must be expanded to reach a broader range of students.

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2026-05-05
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Research Projects
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Knowledge, Awareness, Occupational Therapy, MSI
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