Finding purpose through placement: Anna and Ciara’s story 

Occupational therapy (OT) learners bring unique perspectives and inspiring journeys to their studies and future careers. We spoke with Anna and Ciara, two students at Queen Margaret University who shared their experiences - from what drew them to OT, to their placement challenges and key learnings and the benefits of being part of the RCOT community. Their stories highlight the dedication and passion that drives the next generation of occupational therapists. 

Tell us about yourself and the journey that led you to study occupational therapy. What inspired you to become an OT? 

Anna: 
I’ve always wanted a career that involved working with people and making a positive difference in their lives. After finishing school, I wasn’t sure which path to take, so I took a gap year. During that time, I gained invaluable experience shadowing my aunt, an occupational therapist, and speaking with others in the profession. The more I researched and learned about occupational therapy’s unique and diverse nature, the more inspired I became. A year later, I was on my way to study OT in Edinburgh, feeling incredibly excited to start this journey. 

Ciara: 
I’ve always been drawn to caring professions but didn’t feel that nursing fully aligned with my interests. When I discovered occupational therapy, I was fascinated by its variety and impact. Shadowing an OT at a children’s hospital confirmed this was the career for me. While I didn’t meet the entry requirements for an OT programme right away, I pursued a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in OT Support at Glasgow Clyde College. This experience prepared me to progress to further study at Queen Margaret University, and I haven’t looked back since. 

What did your final-year placement involve, and how did it shape your understanding of OT? 

Anna: 
My final-year placement was at an in-patient forensic care unit, which lasted ten weeks. Initially, I felt apprehensive about stepping into such a complex area, especially as I had no prior experience in this setting. However, it turned out to be one of the most insightful and rewarding placements. I worked within a fantastic multidisciplinary team who supported me in facilitating occupational therapy groups, using person-centred assessment tools, and applying a holistic approach to care. This experience highlighted the transformative power of meaningful occupations in supporting individuals’ recovery. 

Ciara: 
For my final-year placement, I was based at a community forensic mental health service. I spent time supporting individuals in their journey toward community integration and using meaningful activities to promote socialisation. Although I initially felt anxious about the unfamiliar environment and role, the placement gave me a deeper understanding of the critical contributions occupational therapy makes in this field. It was a deeply rewarding experience that has shaped both my professional practice and personal development. 

Did you encounter any challenges, and how did you overcome them? 

Anna: 
Working in a forensic setting presented challenges, particularly when building relationships and gaining trust with patients who had severe mental health conditions and offending histories. It was also a steep learning curve to navigate new policies, security protocols and professional boundaries. Over time, I grew in confidence as I focused on person-centred approaches, facilitated groups, and collaborated with the wider team. This experience underscored the importance of flexibility and creativity in meeting individuals’ complex needs. 

Ciara: 
Initially, I found it challenging to establish trust and build relationships with some patients due to the strict professional boundaries required in this role. Additionally, understanding the policies and specific restrictions for each patient was a steep learning curve. However, using person-centred assessment tools helped me recognise incremental progress, which was incredibly rewarding. Incorporating meaningful activities into care plans also played a vital role in fostering connection and achieving therapeutic goals. 

What was your biggest learning or takeaway from the placement? 

Anna: 
My biggest takeaway was the importance of effective teamwork. Working in this setting required constant communication and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team to ensure the smooth running of the service and the best outcomes for patients. Understanding the roles of different health professionals and working closely with them during team meetings helped facilitate meaningful progress for patients. 

Ciara: 
For me, the key learning was the value of communication and collaboration across multidisciplinary and inter-agency teams. This placement emphasised how important it is to leverage the unique contributions of allied health professionals and third-sector organisations. I also saw how teamwork supported patients transitioning from low-secure environments to community settings, reinforcing the central role of OT in fostering independence and resilience. 

How is RCOT student membership helping you? 

Anna: 
RCOT offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for students. From access to research articles to networking events - both in-person and online - there are countless ways to deepen your understanding of our diverse profession. Being part of a community of like-minded individuals is both inspiring and invaluable. 

Ciara: 
While I initially joined RCOT for the insurance benefits, I soon discovered the broader value it offers. I accessed articles I couldn’t find elsewhere and found OTnews to be an engaging way to stay informed about developments in the profession. It’s been an essential resource throughout my studies.  

Are you considering a career in occupational therapy?   

If you’re ready to embark on a career that changes lives, let Anna and Ciara’s experiences inspire you. Occupational therapy offers endless opportunities to make a difference, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. 

From resources and networking to a community of passionate professionals, discover how RCOT membership can empower you to achieve your goals. 

Discover more inspiring learner and practitioner stories in our ‘OT in action: real stories, real impact’ blog series and explore our resources for students and aspiring OTs.  

Ready to take the next step? Learn how we can support you on your journey to becoming an occupational therapist.