Rebecca Wannamaker

 What are your past/current experiences working in the field of disabilities, allied health, education, or school?  

Throughout my formative years, my deep-seated affection for children with disabilities and IDD became increasingly evident. Witnessing the challenges these children faced within the healthcare system and their struggles in school ignited my determination to make a positive impact. Before embarking on my graduate studies, I had the privilege of working as an occupational therapy and speech therapy technician at an outpatient pediatric center. In this role, I provided support to therapists working with children aged two to six, many of whom were diagnosed with conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder, and Down Syndrome. It was during this time that I discovered my true passion for occupational therapy. Subsequently, I transitioned into the role of a caregiver for an individual with a C5 Spinal Cord Injury, which deepened my understanding of the significance of accessibility and the challenges individuals with disabilities face. My journey has underscored the significance of interprofessional communication and teamwork. It has become clear to me that these elements are essential to ensure the highest quality of life for everyone, particularly those facing unique challenges 

What are your goals for your Interprofessional Preparation experience?  

My goal is to gain a deeper understanding of the roles and responsibilities of other healthcare disciplines to facilitate more efficient and holistic patient care.  From this interprofessional preparation experience I hope to gain the ability to recognize the importance of ongoing education and professional development to stay up to date with emerging healthcare trends and technologies in an interprofessional context. 

What do you wish to contribute as a future Related Service Provider &/or Special Education Teacher?  

I have a strong passion for working with pediatric patients, and my aspiration as a future Occupational Therapist is to champion independence, foster growth, and enhance accessibility within the pediatric community. Cultivating cultural competence, enabling the delivery of culturally sensitive and inclusive care to a diverse range of young patients, will be a fundamental and invaluable aspect of my future contributions as I collaborate within interdisciplinary teams.