Last year I was impatiently waiting for a decision from a school and thought that nothing could be worse than waiting to hear from the one school to which I applied. This year I have been introduced to a different kind of anxiousness as I have impatiently waited to hear back from multiple schools, and am trying to look into the future to see how this decision will impact my career.
In light of all this I thought I would give my personal tips on what has helped me to make this decision.
Factors to Consider
- First, congratulations you were accepted. You are going to be an OT! It may sound silly but every once and a while I realize this again and it brings a smile and sense of accomplishment. Keeping this fact in mind can alleviate many of the stressors you face when trying to make a decision.
- Second, the cost of the program is a major factor. Out-of-state tuition can be expensive and in many cases double what you would pay in-state. Cost of living should also be considered, including rent in the new city as well as the possible pay for any flexible part time work you may be able to get. It is not recommended that you work during your first semester as this may put undue stress on you, but many students do. Just remember to plan ahead, have great time management and pick jobs that are flexible and as stress free as possible.
- Third, OT school is a chance to make life-long friends and to expand your horizons. Take this into account when deciding. During these two - four years, depending on your program, you will meet many interesting people, learn about cultures of new towns possibly, and meet the community around your school. What is student life like? Each of these factors should influence your decision.
- Finally, consider the program. There are many differences between programs. Some are researched based, some are clinical based. All incorporate research and clinical skills into the program. Some schools are closer to AOTA's headquarters, some send student delegations to the national convention. What opportunities does each school provide their students with? Is the school known for producing leaders in the field and the community or is it known for its research? What kinds of research are the faculty doing? Research and decide which school fits your learning style and interest the best.
These are a few of the factors I am considering. They have helped me keep the entire process in focus and will continue to shape my decision going forward.
