Emma Williamson

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

Personally, my experiences started at a very young age, and I am forever grateful this was the case. My mother has been a Special Educator for almost 25 years with experience in public schools, residential facilities and private tutoring. Growing up with her sharing her passion I was able to learn how to interact and build a relationship with these amazing peers. Throughout middle and high school, I was involved in every camp or volunteer event available to pour into various populations.  I have over 10 years of experience as a childcare provider.  I have had numerous families that I provided childcare for, who had multiple children or one child, both with and without disabilities. The main takeaway from the childcare experiences was the interactions and relationships between siblings, the bond, and resilience of children, parents and the value of their family bond.  While preparing for graduate school I had the opportunity to work at different medical facilities including 3 years in urgent care setting and 1.5 years in a Pediatric OT/PT clinic, and volunteer at many organizations that serve, employ, and support individuals with disabilities. These experiences all added different lessons, skills, and ideas to my personal repertoire, each of which have shaped me into the person I am today.  

What are your goals for your Interprofessional Preparation experience?  

My goals for this IPP experience are to effectively collaborate with other disciplines and develop experience working with children and their caregivers, teachers etc. in various situations. I’m eager to develop a deeper understanding of child healthcare, disability, and current legislation so that I can advocate for children with disabilities, assist children in developing the skills they need to become functional and independent, and lay the groundwork for a career of helping children reach their full potential. 

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

The greatest contribution I hope to be able to make to society would be to eventually provide Occupational Therapy services in a rural, medically underserved community like my hometown. As someone who grew up in a place where resources and opportunities for individuals to receive necessary services were limited, I have seen firsthand the fallout that can arise. The coursework, field experiences, and unique networking opportunities that the IPP provides will allow me to have a broader perspective on disability, policies and procedures necessary to obtain, provide, and collaborate with different services, and better equip me to work in rural, medically underserved area overall.