Student Representative: Pueblo Community College
Name: Joanna Wittig, OTAS
What do you love about OT?
So much to love. I love the patient-centered care, the creativity, the knowledge, the professionalism, and the kindness that make this such a unique profession.
How did you choose this profession?This is a career change for me from non-profit communications, most recently in affordable housing. I've always loved working for mission-driven organizations, but was ready to shift from behind-the-scenes to working more directly with people in our community. The seed of OT was first planted for me when I started volunteering as an instructor teaching people with disabilities how to ski. At the end of a ski day, I always wished I had more knowledge to help. After observing OT's in different settings and loving what they did, then recovering from a medical set-back myself, I knew it was time to go for it and join the OT profession.
Why did you choose to become an OTAC student representative?My experiences with OTAC and PCC have both been phenomenal. Becoming a student rep seemed like a wonderful opportunity to bring these two groups together. I'm looking forward to learning about OTAC's role in our state and profession, and then connecting fellow PCC students with OTAC opportunities too.
What's your favorite thing to do in Colorado?Day-hiking to alpine lakes in the summer.