WVU School of Medicine Occupational Therapy students receive white coats, begin clinical rotations
The West Virginia University School of Medicine’s Division of Occupational Therapy hosted a pinning ceremony for 32 master’s and doctoral program students on April 27 at the Okey Patteson Auditorium in Morgantown.
Receiving their white coats marks a distinct transition from classroom instruction to hands-on clinical learning where students apply the foundational knowledge they received and work in real scenarios with patients in need of their services.
“The White Coat Ceremony marks a pivotal milestone in students' educational journeys, symbolizing the transition from didactic coursework to the clinical phase of their training,” Breanna Adkins, EdD, OTR/L, assistant professor in the Division of Occupational Therapy, said. “It reflects their preparedness to engage with real clients and underscores the significance of this achievement. This ceremony not only honors their hard work, but also fosters a sense of confidence as they step into their professional roles. As one of their instructors, it is so gratifying to witness their readiness for this next phase and reflect on how much they have excelled thus far. Seeing them reach this milestone is both a proud and inspiring moment.”
The keynote speaker for the event was MaryBeth Mandich, PT, Ph.D., vice dean for WVU School of Medicine Health Professions and interim chair for the Division of Occupational Therapy, will serve as the keynote speaker. She discussed the accomplishments of the students and the impact occupational therapists play in the lives of their patients.
Meet the students
Molly Gwaltney of Morgantown, West Virginia, is a student in the Master of Occupational Therapy program. She will be completing clinical rotations in acute care and at a skilled nursing facility. Both settings will allow her to focus on helping patients recover from illness or injury and prepare for a safe discharge. Gwaltney is looking forward to applying the skills she has developed during her academic training at WVU and making a real-world impact through occupational therapy.
“Receiving my white coat is a significant milestone as it represents the transition from a two-year journey of rigorous academic studies to jumping into the clinical setting,” Gwaltney said. “I am eager to continue to learn while also getting to practice all the skills I have developed in the classroom.”
Erin Harvey of Connellsville, Pennsylvania, is a student in the Occupational Therapy Doctoral program. She will be completing clinical rotations at a skilled nursing facility in Waynesburg and at Uniontown Hospital. Her current focus is on the geriatric population, though she also has an interest in pediatrics and is open to working in a variety of settings. Harvey is excited to gain hands-on experience and learn new skills as she transitions from the classroom to clinical practice.
“I chose OT because I have always been passionate about helping others,” Harvey said. “This profession allows me to use my compassion and energy to motivate others to be the best version of themselves and