Example of Personal Statement

458 Words2 Pages
I have been working as a professional musician for the past eight years (holding a doctoral performance degree for the past seven), and although I have found my experiences as an orchestral musician and adjunct college professor personally fulfilling, I have felt an increased desire to help other people in more meaningful ways and also to better provide for my family. One night as I was thinking deeply about this situation and researching various career options (related and unrelated to music), I discovered occupational therapy. At first I was intrigued. Then, witnessing the important role in the lives of individuals benefiting from OT, I found myself enveloped by an incredible feeling that this is indeed what I was meant to do. After speaking with a variety of therapists (occupational, speech, and respiratory), I have concluded that OT profession will be a wonderful career path to pursue. I've noticed some parallels between my role as a private violin teacher and my future role as an OT. I communicate detailed and specific instructions individually to my students, which enables them to improve their abilities, the quality of their performance, and their personal satisfaction. In my volunteer/observation experience thus far, I have noticed that a therapist's role also includes that of a mentor, sharing with clients specific plans to improve their lives. In my teaching, I have found the attributes of empathy and patience to be paramount to positive and successful interaction. I have heard OT's emphasize the importance of these attributes in their work as well. I have also noticed that an OT's responsibilities include taking detailed notes, and following up with their patients. I have likewise found that these are vital components to my success as a teacher as well. A few months ago, my Grandma started having increased difficulty making transitions from her bed
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