Inspired by family: My journey to becoming an occupational therapist
Emma Wilberforce, a 25-year-old MSc Occupational Therapy (pre-registration) student at the University of Liverpool, shares how her family’s legacy of care inspired her journey into the profession. From early exposure to healthcare role models to hands-on experiences that sparked her passion, Emma’s story highlights dedication, learning and professional pride.
Here, she reflects on her path to a rewarding career and offers advice for aspiring OTs.
Family influence: a legacy of care
Growing up, I was surrounded by incredible role models in healthcare. My mum has been a nurse for over thirty years, working as a Ward Sister, holding national roles and leading teams across the NHS. I remember watching her get ready for work, proudly asking if she was on “the bleep” today. She’s always had a strong sense of professional identity, something I deeply admire. My nan was also in care, working as a carer and manual handling trainer. I fondly recall her showing me the latest gadgets like long-handled shoehorns and grabbers. Even my grandma on my dad’s side worked in care, supporting young adults with complex needs. Their stories shaped my belief that helping people is a truly meaningful career, even when I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do myself.
Discovering my passion for occupational therapy
After earning my undergraduate degree in Special Educational Needs (SEN) Education at York St John University in 2021, I returned home and started working in a special school. I was fortunate to shadow professionals like behaviour analysts, speech and language therapists, and, of course, occupational therapists (OTs). It was here that I saw first-hand the positive impact of occupational therapy interventions on the children and young adults I worked with. I knew then that this was the path I wanted to pursue.
I was thrilled to be accepted as a therapies assistant at the school, where I received regular supervision from the therapies team. The decision to leave full-time employment and return to student life wasn’t easy – it took a few months to fully commit – but once I was accepted onto the MSc course, I was ready to dive in!
My first placement experience
Just eight weeks into the course, I started my first placement – a 12-week part-time placement with the community rapid response team in Wirral. During this time, I worked closely with my educator, carrying out initial therapy assessments for patients with a wide range of physical, mental, and social needs. Many assessments were for hospital discharge or preventing hospital admissions, with some cases requiring urgent interventions within two hours of referral.
At first, I was nervous about going into peoples’ homes, but my educator reassured me and provided valuable guidance. By the end of the 12 weeks, I had grown in confidence and truly understood the importance of assessing people in their own environments. It felt rewarding to contribute to their safety and well-being in such a direct and meaningful way.
My biggest lesson from this placement? It’s okay not to have all the answers straight away. I was lucky to have an educator who genuinely cared about helping me learn, and I hope one day to offer the same support to future occupational therapy students.
Excited for what lies ahead
When I graduate in 2026, I’m excited to start a rotational post and am already researching NHS trusts that offer these opportunities. Long-term, I’d love to become an educator myself, helping to guide the next generation of occupational therapy students.
In the meantime, I’m making the most of my RCOT student membership, adding to my CPD portfolio and keeping up with the latest developments in occupational therapy practice through the OT in action: real stories, real impact blog series.
Advice for aspiring occupational therapists
If you’re thinking about becoming an OT, I have four pieces of advice:
- Take time to research and explore the profession, its opportunities and the many pathways available to you.
- Keep an open mind and don't rush to settle on one area of practice - there’s so much to discover.
- Wear your uniform with pride, and
- Seize every opportunity to promote your profession!
Are you considering a career in occupational therapy?
Emma's journey from family inspiration to first-year OT student shows just how rewarding and dynamic this path can be. Her experiences - from shadowing professionals to thriving in her first placement - highlight the importance of research, staying open to different areas of practice, and embracing the value of professional identity.
If you're ready to explore a career that makes a real impact on people's lives, take Emma’s advice: do your research, wear your uniform with pride, and promote your profession every chance you get! Stay informed, keep learning and join the community of OTs shaping the future.
Discover more inspiring student 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.