Empowering Future OT Professionals: Highlights from the 2025 OOTA Virtual Student Conclave
The Ohio Occupational Therapy Association (OOTA) recently hosted its 2025 Virtual Student Conclave, a highly anticipated two-night event designed to equip occupational therapy (OT) and occupational therapy assistant (OTA) students with the tools, knowledge, and connections necessary to transition successfully into professional practice. This event featured expert speakers, a new graduate panel, and interactive breakout sessions, covering essential topics such as career preparation, advocacy, ethics, financial literacy, and networking opportunities.
While the Student Conclave has been a longstanding event, its presence had faded in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. When Bekah Bourgeois joined the OOTA Board in October 2023, she saw an opportunity to revitalize and expand the event, ensuring it became an annual tradition.
“The Student Conclave isn’t new, but for the first time in years, OOTA has had consistent leadership to spearhead and grow the event,” Bekah explained. “It’s become a structured, reliable opportunity for students to bridge the gap between education and clinical practice.”
The first virtual conclave in January 2024 was a resounding success, bringing in over 150 participants and setting the foundation for the 2025 event. This year, additional administrative support from OOTA Staff helped streamline logistics, making it easier than ever for students to engage and benefit from the experience.
One of those students was Samantha Briggs, a student from Ohio State. She attended both nights of the event and said listening to recent graduates’ and young professionals’ experiences was instrumental in preparing her for life after graduation.
“Learning about key considerations for fieldwork, taking the NBCOT, and applying for jobs provided an invaluable lens into the future,” Briggs said. “The insights on the licensure process, job applications, and fieldwork preparation are directly applicable to my professional life, helping me navigate these crucial transitions with more confidence.”
The first evening was dedicated to helping students prepare for job searches, interviews, and the licensure process.
Kara Brogan emphasized the importance of crafting a strong resume that highlights fieldwork experiences and relevant skills. She encouraged students to tailor their resumes for each job application, research potential employers in advance, and ask insightful questions during interviews.
“Your resume is your first impression—make it count,” Brogan advised. “And when you get to the interview, don’t just answer their questions—ask them about mentorship, support, and opportunities for growth.”
She also stressed the importance of salary negotiation, reminding students to consider benefits like continuing education support, mentorship, and work-life balance when evaluating job offers.
Missy Anthony provided a step-by-step guide to obtaining an occupational therapy license in Ohio. She explained the difference between certification (NBCOT) and licensure, and warned that failing to apply early can delay employment.
She also introduced the OT Licensure Compact, which allows therapists to practice across multiple states with ease—a valuable tool for graduates considering relocating.
A panel of recent OT and OTA graduates shared their real-world experiences transitioning into clinical practice. Panelists emphasized the importance of mentorship and networking, encouraging students to seek guidance from experienced clinicians.
“Fieldwork isn’t just about confirming what you want to do—it’s about exploring settings you may not have considered,” one panelist noted. “And when it comes to the NBCOT exam, have a plan, stay disciplined, and don’t compare your study habits to others.”
The second night focused on professional responsibilities, advocacy, and financial planning for new graduates.
Erika Eustaquio spoke about the importance of advocacy at all levels—from daily practice to influencing healthcare policies. She introduced the Copay Fairness Act, which aims to prevent higher copays for OT and PT services compared to other outpatient visits.
“Advocacy doesn’t have to mean lobbying. It starts with educating just one person—whether it’s a client, a colleague, or a policymaker.”
“Advocacy doesn’t have to mean lobbying,” she explained. “It starts with educating just one person—whether it’s a client, a colleague, or a policymaker.”
She also guided students through ethical dilemmas, emphasizing the importance of balancing client autonomy, safety, and family concerns in clinical decision-making.
Peggy McElgunn provided practical financial advice, introducing the 50-30-20 budgeting rule, which recommends:
- 50% for needs (rent, groceries, student loan payments).
- 30% for wants (entertainment, travel, hobbies).
- 20% for savings & debt repayment.
She also outlined loan repayment strategies, including:
- The Avalanche Method, which prioritizes high-interest loans first.
- The Snowball Method, which tackles smaller loans for motivation.
McElgunn encouraged students to explore loan forgiveness programs and negotiate salaries beyond just pay—considering benefits like continuing education stipends and mentorship opportunities.
The event concluded with breakout sessions, where students could connect with clinicians from a variety of practice settings, including:
- NICU therapy
- Outpatient and school-based pediatrics
- Skilled nursing
- Home health
- Mental health
- Acute care
These small-group discussions allowed students to ask specific career-related questions and gain firsthand insights into different work environments.
“Students left with real connections to professionals in their field of interest,” Bekah said. “This is where networking really starts.”
Bekah sees the Student Conclave as more than just an event—it’s a bridge to professional practice.
“This event gives students a taste of what OOTA is about,” she explained. “They get to connect with clinicians, learn about licensure and advocacy, and gain insight into life after graduation. You may not walk away with all the answers, but you will meet people who can help you find them. If you’re looking for mentorship, advice, or career guidance, this is the place to be.”
Briggs said she would “highly recommend this event to other OT and OTA students” who are looking for a comprehensive professional development experience.
“To get the most out of an event like this, I suggest preparing questions in advance, taking notes, and keeping an open mind—even to topics that may not seem immediately relevant but could be important down the road,” she advised.
In addition to the annual Student Conclave, OOTA has begun hosting smaller, focused events throughout the year.
- February: A virtual session on occupational therapy fellowships provided students with information on specialized training programs.
- April: A NBCOT test-taking strategies session will help students prepare for their certification exams.
By expanding these initiatives, OOTA ensures that students have continuous access to professional development and mentorship opportunities throughout their academic journey.
Practicing clinicians looking for ways to support the next generation of OTPs are encouraged to get involved.
“It’s a low-commitment way to give back—one night, two hours, and a chance to share your expertise,” Bekah explained. “If you’ve ever wanted to mentor students or help shape the future of occupational therapy, this is the perfect opportunity.”
With ongoing support from OOTA, dedicated leadership, and engaged students, the Student Conclave is set to remain a cornerstone event for Ohio’s future OTPs.
Visit OOTA’s website for a recap of this year’s event, featuring the winners of the raffle, where lucky winners received NBCOT study packs and OOTA student memberships.
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