University of Oklahoma and University of Scranton Technological Visits
Hi all,
The past two days, because of technology, I was able to visit two Universities. At the University of Oklahoma I conversed via videoconferencing with the student occupational therapy association. This was a rescheduled visit as I was supposed to talk to the students the day I was stuck in South Dakota because of the wind. They were very kind to allow me to take some more of their time. I also attended Rita Castaldy's class at the University of Scranton. Both student groups were very prepared and asked me many questions. Their questions indicated how well-informed they were, their eagerness to learn, and their willingness to be involved and participate. I think I have repeatedly blogged generally how impressed I am with this new generation of practitioners, future educators, and potential scientists. They definately are interested in leadership. In fact, most ask me about my career path to leadership as a possible example. I think that the key ingredients are setting goals (both long and short-term), planning the best strategies to achieve the goals, seeking mentors and new learning, and taking advantage of leadership opportunities that come along the way. Leadership must be assumed while in school, on fieldwork, on the job, in the community, and in your family. In other words, lead where you are. Leadership is not a position but involves skills, critical thinking, strategic action, and a positive, can-do attitude. Leaderhsip can be learned and developed. The world is hungry for positive leaders. Yes leadership is risky and puts you out there for criticism. But, perhaps the greater risk is letting someone else lead you into a direction that is not right for you or your career or even for the profession!
I approach leadership with the metaphor of being a turtle. I have a hard shell that keeps negativity from getting to my core being; if I get flipped over due to unexpected and unforseen circumstances, I can right myself; I may be slow at times in my progress, but I keep going and I can go the distance; and finally, if I need to protect myself, I can either bring my head into my shell for awhile, or I can snap and bite when I need to! In general, I am tough because I am confident in my education, my experience, my expertise, and most of all because of my relationships with many outstanding occupational therapy practitioners, members of other healthcare professions and disciplines, and community and national leaders. Basically, the message to the students was to decide one's career trajectory and make it happen (and of course it is expected you will make many revisions to the plan along the way). It will never be an easy growth path, but will be one that is full of meaning and self-satisfaction.
Penny Moyers Cleveland
AOTA President