Let’s break down exactly how I got into occupational therapy (OT) school. I’ll share my GPA, shadowing experiences, volunteer work, major, and even how I structured my personal statement.
When I was applying, I remember how overwhelming it all felt. I was constantly Googling:
- “What GPA do I need for OT school?”
- “How many shadowing hours should I have?”
- “What should I put in my personal statement?”
If that sounds like you right now—take a deep breath. 😊 I’m here to walk you through my journey and hopefully give you some clarity (and maybe even a little encouragement!).
GPA: You Don’t Need a 4.0
Let’s be honest—grades can feel like the scariest part of the application. For context, my:
- Overall undergraduate GPA: 3.4
- Prerequisite GPA: 3.5
Not a perfect 4.0, and that’s okay! Many OT programs take a holistic view of your application. If you’re strong in other areas, you can still be a competitive applicant.
Tip: Double-check which courses each program counts as prerequisites—some schools have slightly different requirements!
Shadowing Hours: Quality and Variety Matter
I completed over 200 shadowing hours in two different settings—one pediatric and one adult:
- Pediatrics: I shadowed in a school-based setting. It was eye-opening to see how OTs support kids with sensory and motor needs.
- Adults: I shadowed at an outpatient orthopedic clinic. A totally different pace, but just as valuable!
Pro tip: I kept a simple log with the date, setting, OT’s name, and a quick note about what I observed. I had it signed regularly in case a program asked for verification.
Volunteer Work: Show Your Heart
Beyond shadowing, I got involved in my community:
- Volunteered with Special Olympics
- Helped with local health fairs
- Worked as a research assistant in the kinesiology department
Even if it’s not directly OT-related, volunteering shows you’re engaged, compassionate, and committed to helping others.
My Major: Not Just for Science Majors!
I majored in Exercise Science and minored in Biology, which gave me a solid foundation in anatomy and movement science—very helpful for OT.
But don’t stress if your major is something else! I’ve met amazing OT students who studied:
- Psychology
- Social Work
- English
As long as you complete the prerequisite courses, you’re on the right track.
Personal Statement: Your Story Matters
Your personal statement is a huge part of your application. Mine was just about a page (front and back), and here’s how I structured it:
- Intro: A quick hook and my reason for applying
- Why OT?: What drew me to the field
- Personal Story: A meaningful experience that inspired me
- Career Goals: Where I see myself in OT
- Academic Background: Relevant coursework, achievements, and research
- Areas of Interest: Pediatrics, sensory integration, and assistive tech
Advice: Don’t just say you want to help people—show them how your background and goals make you the right fit for OT.
Final Tips for Pre-OT Students
- Join a pre-OT club or health professions group on campus. I found mentorship and guidance from students ahead of me.
- Reach out to OT students or practicing therapists. Most are happy to help if you just ask!
- Believe in yourself. This process can feel intense, but if you’re passionate, prepared, and open to learning—you’ve got this. 💪
Thanks for reading!
Let me know in the comments:
- What schools are you applying to?
- What part of the application makes you most nervous?
And don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more OT school tips.