Katrina Moorthy (she/her) is a recent graduate of the Masters of Occupational Therapy program at UBC. During her time at UBC, Katrina was fortunate to represent her class as the Co-President of the Occupational Therapy Student Society and the Year 2 representative on the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (J.E.D.I) committee. She was also honoured to represent her program at both the 2022 CAOT Conference and the TLEF and ALT-2040 Conference.
After graduation, Katrina gained experience pursuing her passion of supporting older adults by working in Long Term Care and is currently transitioning to a position in Home and Community Health. Her hope is to continue to find and create opportunities to advocate for and provide care to marginalized populations. When Katrina is not practicing Occupational Therapy, you can find her spending time with family and friends, crocheting, or baking up a storm!
What drew you to the Master of Occupational Therapy (OT) degree at UBC?
Occupational Therapy is a helping profession, and enables me to advocate for individuals so that they can maximize their strengths, while supporting them with their identified goals and wellness priorities. Additionally, I entered my Masters at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. UBC not only provided me a program with values that lined up with my own, but gave me the opportunity to stay close to family during an incredibly difficult time for so many people.
How has studying in the MOT program made an impact on you?
Studying in the MOT program provided me with friends and mentors I will stay connected to throughout my life.
What was something you learned in the MOT program that surprised you?
I was surprised and fulfilled as I learned that Occupational Therapists have a societal role in Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. I was not aware that we could have a role in this area in our communities as I viewed OT as a clinical practice. However, as I learned about the unique perspective we bring to J.E.D.I initiatives, it ignited a greater sense of excitement as it was melding two passions of mine (OT and J.E.D.I).
What is your favorite memory from your time at UBC?
Tough question! Probably my first day of the MOT program. I remember sitting in a room with my peers, making small talk, and then listening to everyone’s introductions. I remember feeling at home in that room. It felt like I was in a room of people who understood the way I thought and shared the same passions and interests as me. It was a very special feeling, and I am grateful for every one of my peers, for creating such a safe and welcoming learning environment.
Where do you find inspiration?
I find inspiration from the individuals in my life. Whether it is family, friends, clients, or people I interact with for only a moment in time, there is so much to learn from lived experiences and from the sharing of differing perspectives, insight, and wisdom. I have learned so much just from listening to those around me.
What does a healthy society mean to you?
Equitable access to opportunities for all individuals so that they may experience a high quality of life, however they may define that for themselves. Everyone is different, and everyone’s needs are unique to themselves. A healthy society would support individuals to meet their unique needs and goals and understand that this will look different for each person.
What are your plans after graduation?
I am currently working and I am so grateful for all the opportunities that a career in Occupational Therapy is providing me! I hope to continue to grow as an OT, explore opportunities to participate in J.E.D.I initiatives, read for fun, travel, and get a dog. I’m also getting married next year so wedding planning is taking up a good proportion of my time!
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