On Nov. 20, students gathered this afternoon for the annual Day of Transformation in the Plass Learning Resources from 1-3:30 p.m.
The Day of Transformation focuses on four WTE areas: scholarly and creative work, community and civic engagement, leadership and international education. Every project is created and carried out by students, giving them a chance to take what they learn in class.
“We are presenting some of the adoptive equipment projects that we made throughout the semester for individuals with disabilities and to help them be able to participate in life and do things that they might not normally be able to do because of their disabilities,” said Bethany Sigala, freshman occupational therapy assistant major.
The student presenter explained different therapy activities, the importance of accessibility and how occupational therapy supports long-term development. The project drew interest from students walking by, many of whom stopped to ask questions and learn more about the field.
“I think that this unique of these extra tests, like all of our inventions, are super simple, super cheap and I think it just perfectly showcases all the little things that you can do to help somebody who struggles with everyday activities,” said Ava Lemaster, sophomore occupational therapy assistant major.
Faculty mentors were also present, talking with students about their work and supporting them as they discussed their semester-long efforts. Some professors even stayed longer than planned, chatting with presenters about what surprised them during the project, what challenges they faced and how the experience shaped their goals.
“We think it’s really good to get them more familiar with talking to people,” said Lindsey Welliver, adjunct faculty for occupational therapy assistant program. “They’ve all created some really great pieces of equipment and I think it’s great to see them, see other people appreciate that equipment.”
For many attendees, especially first-year students, it was a chance to see what their own future WTE project might look like. Seeing different topics from science and healthcare to leadership and community work made the experience feel accessible and flexible.
“Last year, I missed a lot of classes and did assignments at the very last minute… But this year, I definitely put in a lot more effort showing up my best and doing my best work, but also doing work ahead of time. I definitely put a lot more effort into my organization,” said Aniyah Foster, sophomore occupational therapy major.
As the event wrapped up, students took photos, exchanged encouragement and celebrated the end of a busy semester. The Day of Transformation once again highlighted how much growth happens when students take ownership of their ideas and turn them into meaningful experiences.
Edited by Anushma Dahal and Stuti Khadka
