Taylor Lessem

Background

About Taylor Lessem

As a third year Doctor of Occupational Therapy student at the University of Florida with plans to graduate in December of 2024, I am eager to utilize my new knowledge and skills in a future position specializing in pediatrics to empower children to obtain optimal health and well-being.My academic background has provided me with a wealth of skills and knowledge in occupational therapy. My time in undergraduate and graduate school at UF portrays my strong foundation of knowledge of OT principles, techniques, and evidence-based practices. Pursing a minor in Disabilities in Society has broadened my perspective on the unique obstacles faced by individuals with disabilities. Additionally, my past work experience provided me with hands-on experience in evaluating children’s functional and cognitive abilities. My experience throughout the OTD program has been pivotal in my preparation to become a future pediatric OT. My experience at Boca Regional Hospital prepared me for the high-paced environment required in inpatient/acute settings as well as knowledge regarding medical equipment. At Pediatric Therapy Associates, I conducted evaluations and interventions for pediatric patients with complex needs to support functional participation in activities of daily living. These experiences promoted my clinical skills and confidence in interdisciplinary collaboration and family-centered care. For my capstone experience, I will gain in-depth knowledge regarding clinical skills and caregiver education in the inpatient pediatric setting. My project will focus on developing a comprehensive caregiver education program to equip caregivers with the vital knowledge to support their children’s needs following discharge. This experience will include engaging in in-depth research, conducting surveys, creating educational materials, and implementing intervention sessions. This will enhance my ability to communicate information with families and commit to a holistic, family-centered approach.My strengths lie in a strong academic background, diverse experiences with pediatrics and a passionate dedication to the field. My commitment to lifelong learning ensures that I am updated with the latest evidence-based practices to provide high quality care. I am specifically interested in working in the inpatient pediatric setting to enhance the quality of life of children with complex medical needs. My experiences and passion have equipped me with the skills and resources required to excel as a pediatric OT, and I am excited to contribute my knowledge to the profession’s advancement.