Plus, see Muffin, our Pet of the Month!
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November 2025

    It’s November, and things are heating up (academically, at least)! From powerful lessons on self-reflection during fieldwork to 10 great reasons to get published in the OT Student Pulse, this issue is packed with inspiration. Also, check out our upcoming conferences, new clinical resources, and the star of the show—our Pet of the Month!

    Fieldwork as a Mirror: How Self-Reflection Deepens Learning and Empathy (A. Fawcett)

    Alicia Fawcett, an OTA/S, highlights how self-reflection during fieldwork can deepen learning, build empathy, and strengthen confidence for occupational therapy students. Drawing from personal experiences, she shares lessons on embracing imperfection, practicing flexibility, and finding growth through connection, vulnerability, and mindful reflection.

     

    A Method for More Sustainable Events (T. Hood)

    Tyler Hood, recent OTD grad, explores how occupational therapy practitioners and students can promote sustainability through waste-conscious events—intentional gatherings that reduce environmental impact by reusing materials, minimizing waste, and fostering awareness of the link between healthy environments and meaningful occupations. 

     

    10 Reasons to Write for the OT Student Pulse—Article Update (T. Hood)

    This updated article encourages OT and OTA students to share their experiences, insights, and ideas by writing for AOTA’s OT Student Pulse. It highlights 10 reasons to contribute—from advocating for the profession and building connections to developing writing skills, inspiring others, and leaving a lasting impact within the occupational therapy community.

    Pitch an Article
    Join the Editorial Team

    AOTA Updates

     

    We apologize for any technical challenges you might have experienced during recent enhancements to MyAOTA.

     

    While these types of issues can occur during significant system upgrades, we appreciate how frustrating this can be and deeply regret any inconvenience this has caused. For the most current information, visit our regularly updated webpage.

    Visit the Support Page

    Pet of the Month

    Muffin

    Muffin

    Domestic Short Hair Cat, 3 years old
    Kyle, George Fox University, OTD, 2027

    Muffin enjoys eating breakfast with Kyle, going on walks in the park, and playing with her fish rod. Her favorite activity is to play dead like a possum.

    Submit Your Pet

    Clinical Topics Alert

     

    Have you checked out AOTA's Clinical Topics webpage recently?  Discover a list of curated AOTA resources related to various clinical topics such as stroke, sleep, and musculoskeletal conditions.

    Trending on CommunOT

     

    Advice on how to treat a patient you have biases against.

    See what practitioners and other students have to say about handling biases in the workplace.

     

    Finding Your Setting?

    Join the discussion or find advice on how to find your setting. 

    Events & Opportunities

     

    2025 Education Summit

    Salt Lake City, Utah | November 14–15, 2025

     

    Join us November 14-15 in Salt Lake City, UT, to explore frameworks for belonging, resilience, and equity with practical strategies in inclusive pedagogy, neurodiversity-affirming practices, and trauma-informed education. AOTA members and students get discounted rates! Earn up to 12.75 contact hours. 

     

    AOTA Specialty Conference: Children & Youth

    Charlotte, North Carolina | December 12–13, 2025

     

    Elevate your clinical skills across pediatric settings, strengthen family-centered, trauma-informed practice, expand your impact in schools and communities, embrace neurodiversity and mental health advocacy, and experience Charlotte and connect with your community! There is special discount pricing for AOTA student members. Earn up to 13 contact hours. 

    Explore More Student Opportunities

    OT Student Pulse Editorial Team

     

    Editor in Chief: Kenzie Hiler

    Senior Editor: Julamy Serrano Arocho

    Associate Editors: Tyler Hood, Kiera Mooney, Emily Olsen, Tanner Daniel

     

    Apply to join the team!

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